CNN
Ukraine Accuses Russia of Ceasefire Violations
Ukraine has charged Russia with violating an Easter truce that was unexpectedly announced by President Vladimir Putin on Saturday, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claiming that Putin’s actions are motivated by public relations rather than genuine peace efforts.
Putin’s Sudden Announcement
In a sudden declaration, Putin instructed his military to “cease all military operations” starting at 6 p.m. Moscow time on Saturday until midnight Sunday into Monday (5 p.m. ET Sunday).
Ceasefire Status and Claims
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated on Sunday that Putin has not ordered any extension of the ceasefire beyond the initially set duration, as reported by the Russian state news agency TASS. Ukrainian officials noted a temporary reduction in clashes initially, but by Sunday afternoon, Russian attacks began to escalate again, while Russia accused Ukraine of breaching the ceasefire.
Mixed Reactions to the Truce
Initially skeptical, Ukraine agreed to the truce spanning 30 hours, particularly since there have been no pauses in fighting since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022. Questions concerning Putin’s strategy arose, particularly as the truce announcement followed the Trump administration’s threats to withdraw from peace negotiations unless clear progress was made.
Ongoing Military Actions Despite Truce
Reports indicated an increase in Russian shelling and drone activity. Zelensky remarked, “It appears that either Putin lacks full control over his military, or Russia is solely focused on favorable media coverage and not on pursuing genuine peace.”
Ukraine’s Position on the Ceasefire
Amid the ongoing hostilities, Zelensky highlighted that Ukraine would comply with orders to minimize fire against Russian forces but would retaliate if first attacked. The Ukrainian military has indicated a willingness to extend the ceasefire to 30 days, correlating with a US-led initiative that Russia previously declined. Meanwhile, Putin has framed the ceasefire as a humanitarian gesture while warning his forces would respond to any provocations.
Increased Hostilities Reported
By mid-afternoon on Sunday, reports indicated a significant uptick in Russian attacks, including 901 incidents, 448 involving heavy weaponry, and more than 400 drone uses. Both sides continue to trade accusations of violations, creating a complex and volatile situation as calls for a more extended ceasefire persist.
