Ukraine rejects Russia's Easter truce proposal, demands meaningful ceasefire
The war between Russia and Ukraine has turned for the worse after the two engaged in an exchange of words regarding a possible Easter truce. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has refused Russia's advance for a temporary ceasefire, labeling it a publicity stunt.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared it will "mirror" Russia's moves, truce or strikes, hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin accepted a short-term Easter truce. Zelenskyy said Russia previously "dismissed" the "proposition of a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire". He said Ukraine proposes extending the truce beyond Easter Sunday of April 20 - "because 30 hours is sufficient to make headlines, but not for substantial confidence-building measures".
Putin's Easter truce proposal
Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a unilateral Easter ceasefire, ordering his troops to halt operations from Saturday through Monday. But he also cautioned his soldiers to be ready to react to any possible violations or provocations.
Zelenskyy's response
Zelenskyy reacted by stating that Ukraine will reciprocate Russia's actions, but only if the ceasefire is sincere and not a publicity stunt. He added that Russia had already disregarded a 30-day ceasefire offer and that a temporary truce would be inadequate to restore trust.
Ukraine's conditions for ceasefire
Zelenskyy again insists that Ukraine needs a real and unconditional ceasefire, not a symbolic one. He recommended that Russia should commit to a longer-lasting truce after the Easter holiday if it's genuinely interested in peace.
Extended conflict on the frontline
In spite of the suggested ceasefire, battles rage on with Ukrainian forces on the frontline continued to report Russian artillery strikes and attack operations. Zelenskyy accused Putin of using religious festivities to incite the public and promised to retaliate against any Russian action.
Russia and Ukraine continues to be fierce
The struggle between Russia and Ukraine continues to be fierce, with none of them indicating a willingness to give way. As things go on, the world waits anxiously, wishing for an amicable solution to the crisis.
