Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a surprising announcement of an “Easter truce” in Ukraine, according to reports from the Russian Ministry of Defence. The truce, which will be in effect from 18:00 Moscow time today until midnight on 21 April, is a temporary halt to all military operations in the region.
The decision to implement the truce was reportedly influenced by humanitarian considerations, as stated by the Ministry of Defence. They have called upon the Ukrainian side to reciprocate the ceasefire, although it remains uncertain whether Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has agreed to the terms of the truce.
This announcement comes amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with clashes in eastern Ukraine causing casualties and displacing civilians. The temporary ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope for a respite in the conflict and a potential opening for peace negotiations.
As the world watches closely, it remains to be seen whether both sides will honor the truce and use this opportunity to work towards a lasting peace in the region. The coming days will be crucial in determining the outcome of this development in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
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