Putin's Easter truce falters as conflict persists in Ukraine
Vladimir Putin announced an Easter truce in Ukraine, but despite the declaration, military actions are still ongoing. The European Commission and the government of the United Kingdom have called upon Russia for a genuine and lasting ceasefire, emphasizing that only a complete halt to fighting can form the basis for assessing the sincerity of Moscow's intentions.
Key information
- Vladimir Putin announced an Easter truce that was supposed to last until midnight on Monday.
- Ukraine reports continued attacks despite the announced truce.
- The European Commission and the United Kingdom are calling on Russia for a lasting ceasefire.
Easter truce in Ukraine
Vladimir Putin announced an Easter truce that was intended to halt military actions in Ukraine until midnight on Monday. Despite this, Ukraine reports continued attacks by Russian forces, and air raid alarms are still sounding in some regions.
The European Commission responded to Putin's decision. Spokeswoman Anitta Hipper emphasized that Russia must take genuine actions towards a lasting ceasefire. She also reminded that Ukraine had previously agreed to an unconditional ceasefire, but Moscow did not accept this proposal.
United Kingdom's appeal
The United Kingdom has also called on Russia for a full ceasefire. The country's Foreign Ministry emphasized that a pause in fighting could enable negotiations aimed at achieving lasting peace. "Now is the moment for Putin to show he is serious about peace by ending his horrible invasion," the statement added.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrij Sybiha expressed scepticism about Putin's declaration, emphasizing that Kyiv will assess actions, not words. "We want to see Russian forces truly cease fire on all fronts," he stated.
Despite the announced truce, the situation in Ukraine remains tense. International calls for a lasting ceasefire indicate the need for real actions from Russia.
