Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a temporary truce for Orthodox Easter, after President Vladimir Putin announced a ceasefire from Saturday afternoon through Easter Sunday. He said Russian forces had been ordered to stop fighting in all directions and expressed hope that Ukraine would follow suit, while also instructing troops to prepare for possible violations.

President Volodymyr Zelensky responded that Ukraine was ready for 'symmetrical steps' and called for an Easter free from threats, urging Russia not to resume attacks after the holiday. The proposed pause follows repeated Ukrainian appeals for a broader ceasefire and comes amid continued drone and missile strikes that have killed and injured civilians in recent days.

Despite the announcement, skepticism remains high in Ukraine. Previous limited truces, including pauses tied to energy infrastructure and commemorative events, were followed by renewed attacks and numerous reported violations. Kyiv continues to push for a full and lasting ceasefire as a first step toward peace negotiations, while Moscow insists that a broader agreement must be settled first.