Putin Declares 32-Hour Orthodox Easter Ceasefire in Ukraine

In a move tied to the Orthodox Easter weekend, Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a decree ordering a 32-hour ceasefire in Ukraine, starting 4 p.m. local time on Saturday and lasting until the end of Sunday. The Kremlin released the order, which aims to pause hostilities during the holiday period. Zelenskyy had earlier urged both sides to halt attacks on energy infrastructure to observe the holiday, a proposal he said he conveyed through the United States, which has been mediating talks between Moscow and Kyiv as the invasion enters its fifth year.

Ukraine was reportedly expected to accept the plan, which was framed as a humanitarian gesture and a potential stepping stone toward broader dialogue amid ongoing fighting and international diplomacy. The ceasefire is described as limited in scope and time, with no immediate indication of a broader halt to all military actions beyond the Easter period.

Observers and residents alike are watching closely to see whether the pause translates into a tangible reduction in violence on the ground and whether it can build momentum for future negotiations facilitated by the United States and other mediators. The move comes as Western capitals press for de-escalation and dialogue during a period of heightened tension between Moscow and Kyiv.

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