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Ukraine Accuses Russia of Violating Easter Ceasefire, Reports Ongoing Attacks
KYIV, Ukraine – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Sunday that Russia was creating a deceptive impression of respecting an Easter ceasefire. He asserted that Moscow persisted in launching attacks despite Russian President Vladimir Putin’s declaration of a unilateral temporary truce. The accusations come amid ongoing tensions in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, raising questions about the sincerity of the announced cessation of hostilities.
Zelensky: Russia Fabricating Ceasefire Image
“On Easter morning, it is evident that the Russian military is attempting to project a general image of a ceasefire. However, in certain areas, they are not abandoning isolated endeavors to advance and inflict casualties on Ukraine,” Zelensky communicated via a post on X.
Continued Shelling and Assaults Reported
Despite Putin’s ceasefire declaration on Saturday, Zelenskyy reported on Sunday morning that Ukrainian forces had documented 59 instances of Russian shelling and five ground assaults by military units along the frontline. Furthermore, he noted dozens of drone incursions.
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Increase in Russian Military Activity
In a subsequent update, Zelenskyy indicated that despite Ukraine announcing a symmetrical approach to Russian actions, there had been a surge in Russian shelling and drone attacks since 10 a.m. (0700 GMT). He did note a positive aspect: “It is a good thing, at least, that there were no air raid sirens.”
Questions Raised Regarding Russia’s Intentions
“In reality, either Putin lacks complete command over his military, or the situation demonstrates that in Russia, there is no genuine intention to move towards ending the war. Their interest appears to be solely in securing favorable public relations,” he wrote.
Ukraine Urges Full Ceasefire Adherence
Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia must fully comply with the ceasefire terms and reiterated Ukraine’s proposition to extend the truce for 30 days, commencing midnight Sunday. He stated that this proposal “remains under consideration” and added, “We will respond according to the actual circumstances on the ground.”
Initial Reduction in Hostilities Followed by Renewed Attacks
Zelenskyy stated on Saturday night that some regions had experienced reduced fighting since the ceasefire announcement. He suggested this indicated Putin was the “primary reason” for the war. “As soon as Putin issued an order to de-escalate the attacks, the intensity of strikes and fatalities decreased. The sole origin of this war and its continuation resides in Russia,” he posted on X.
Russia Accuses Ukraine of Violations
Russia’s Defense Ministry declared on Sunday that Ukrainian forces initiated overnight attacks in the Donetsk region, alleging ceasefire violations. They also claimed 48 drones were deployed into Russian territory. The ministry reported, “dead and wounded among the civilian population,” without providing specific details. It maintained that Russian forces had rigorously observed the ceasefire.
Pro-Russian Officials in Kherson Echo Accusations
Russian-installed authorities in the partially occupied Ukrainian region of Kherson also asserted that Ukrainian forces persisted with their attacks.
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Putin Attends Easter Service Amid Ceasefire Announcement
Just hours following the ceasefire declaration, Putin attended an Easter service late Saturday at Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. The service was conducted by Patriarch Kirill, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church and a vocal supporter of Putin and the war in Ukraine.
Ceasefire Duration Details
According to the Kremlin, the ceasefire was scheduled to last from 6 p.m. Moscow time (1500 GMT) on Saturday until midnight (2100 GMT) after Easter Sunday.
Lack of Clarity on Ceasefire Monitoring
Putin did not specify how the ceasefire would be monitored, nor did he clarify if it would encompass airstrikes or the ongoing ground combat that persists around the clock.
Trump’s Remarks on Ukraine-Russia Negotiations
His announcement followed comments from U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday, who stated that negotiations between Ukraine and Russia are “coming to a head.” Trump insisted that neither side is “deceiving” him in his efforts to conclude the protracted three-year conflict.