Moscow has declared a pause in fighting from 16:00 Moscow time (13:00 GMT) on Saturday through Sunday. President Vladimir Putin ordered the nation’s military to halt all operations against Ukrainian forces during this period.
The Kremlin described the move as a humanitarian gesture, not a substitute for lasting peace with Ukraine. It also stated that the Russian military would remain prepared to respond to any Ukrainian offensive operations or provocations.
“We expect the Ukrainian side to follow Russia’s lead,” the Kremlin said earlier this week.
In response, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky claimed that Kiev was “ready for mirror steps” and called for a prolonged truce extending beyond Easter weekend. This decision has been condemned by Moscow as an unnecessary escalation of tensions.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Friday that peace could be reached if Zelenskiy “takes responsibility” and makes the necessary decisions.