Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared an "Easter ceasefire" in the war in Ukraine, ordering a halt to all military action from 6 p.m. today until midnight Monday.
According to a Kremlin statement, Putin announced the decision during a meeting with the Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Valery Gerasimov.
"Guided by humanitarian considerations, I order a halt to all military actions during this period," the Russian President said.
Although Putin justified the decision as a humanitarian act, his war has caused thousands of casualties and devastated entire cities in Ukraine. Just days ago, a Russian missile strike on the city of Sumy killed 34 people, including children.
This is the first time Russia has declared a period of peace since the invasion began in February 2022. According to the Kremlin, the "Easter ceasefire" is expected to be respected by Ukraine, although Kiev has not yet officially reacted to the announcement.
However, Russia has warned that its troops will remain "ready to repel" any action it considers a violation of the ceasefire.
Putin's statement comes as international pressure for a full ceasefire and the resumption of peace talks is growing, especially after former US President Donald Trump warned that the US would withdraw from any attempt at negotiations if there is no visible progress. (A2 Televizion)
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