World News | Ukraine Conflict | Russia | Current World
In a surprise announcement, Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a temporary “Easter truce” in the ongoing war with Ukraine, calling for a brief halt in hostilities over the Orthodox Christian holiday. But Ukrainian officials were quick to reject the move, labeling it a “propaganda stunt” and insisting that Putin "cannot be trusted."
The proposed ceasefire, set to begin on Orthodox Easter Sunday, is intended to allow civilians to attend religious services and access humanitarian aid. Kremlin sources say Russian forces have been ordered to pause offensive operations for a 48-hour window.
“As a gesture of spiritual unity, Russia will observe a ceasefire during Easter,” the Kremlin statement read.
accusing Moscow of using religious occasions to regroup militarily while trying to appear diplomatic on the world stage.
“We’ve seen similar ‘truces’ in the past — and they were broken with bombs and bloodshed,” said a spokesperson for Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense.
Ukraine argues that genuine peace efforts would involve a full withdrawal of Russian troops from occupied territories, not temporary pauses.
A Pattern of Broken Promises?
This is not the first time Russia has announced a temporary ceasefire. Previous so-called truces during Orthodox Christmas and other holidays were quickly followed by renewed missile attacks and ground offensives, often within hours.
Analysts say the timing of the truce is politically strategic, as Russia faces increasing international pressure and ongoing Ukrainian resistance on the front lines.
International Reactions
The announcement received mixed reactions abroad. While some humanitarian groups cautiously welcomed the truce as a potential window to deliver aid, Western leaders expressed doubts.
The European Union called on Russia to demonstrate sincerity by allowing independent observers to monitor troop movements and humanitarian access during the ceasefire period.
The United Nations reiterated its call for a permanent and verifiable ceasefire, stating that "symbolic gestures are not enough" amid a war that has displaced millions and killed tens of thousands.
As Orthodox Christians prepare to celebrate Easter, the battlefield remains uncertain. Putin’s Easter truce may offer brief relief, but without long-term commitment, Ukraine and its allies say it’s little more than a distraction. Trust, they say, must be earned — not announced
