Putin and Zelensky Agree to Easter Truce

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a temporary ceasefire in the war in Ukraine to observe the Easter holiday, according to the official Kremlin website. The truce will be in effect from 4:00 PM on April 11 until the end of April 12.

The President instructed the Minister of Defense and the General Staff of the Armed Forces to cease all military operations across all fronts during this period. However, the document specifies that the military must remain prepared for potential provocations or attacks from the opposing side.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to the decision, reminding the public that Ukraine had previously proposed an Easter ceasefire and has long been ready for such steps.

• Zelensky emphasized that the people need a safe holiday.

• He suggested that Russia has the opportunity to refrain from strikes even after the Easter period concludes.

Earlier, on April 9, Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky announced that the two sides had completed an exchange of the bodies of deceased servicemen.

• Russia to Ukraine: 1,000 bodies of military personnel were handed over.

• Ukraine to Russia: 41 bodies of Russian soldiers were returned.