A Russian-declared ceasefire for Orthodox Easter collapsed hours after taking effect Sunday, with Kyiv and Moscow trading sharp accusations over violations amid escalating tensions. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the 36-hour pause in hostilities ahead of the holiday, marking the first major truce proposal since December 2022.
Ukrainian authorities reported 26 attacks across frontline positions in Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson by midday Sunday. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Moscow of exploiting the gesture for propaganda, writing: "Russia is only pretending to observe the ceasefire. Either Putin doesn't control his military, or he's only interested in positive PR—not peace."
Russian defense officials countered that Ukrainian forces launched artillery strikes near Donetsk and shelled residential areas in Russian-occupied territories. Neither claim could be independently verified. The collapse underscores deepening mistrust between the warring sides as global observers increasingly scrutinize Asia's role in mediating the conflict.
The failed truce coincided with Orthodox Easter celebrations in multiple Asian countries including Russia, Serbia, and Georgia. Analysts note the breakdown reduces immediate prospects for negotiated peace while raising concerns about potential escalation ahead of Ukraine's anticipated spring counteroffensive.
