Putin Announces Easter Ceasefire for Orthodox Christians, Hopes Ukraine Will Follow Suit
Xinhua News Agency, Moscow, April 9 (Reporter Hou Ming) - Russian President Putin announced on the 9th that Russia will soon implement a ceasefire for Orthodox Easter.
According to a statement released on the Kremlin's website, the Supreme Commander of the Russian Armed Forces, Putin, has decided that in light of the upcoming Orthodox Easter, Russia will declare a ceasefire from 16:00 Moscow time on the 11th to 24:00 on the 12th. It is hoped that Ukraine will follow Russia's example.
This year's Orthodox Easter falls on April 12.
The statement said that Russian Defense Minister Shoigu and Chief of the General Staff Gerasimov have been instructed to halt all combat operations in all directions during the ceasefire. At the same time, the Russian military must be prepared to respond to any possible provocations and violations by Ukraine.
According to the Ukrainian International News Agency, Ukrainian President Zelensky said on March 30 that Ukraine is ready for a ceasefire during Easter.
President Putin announced a ceasefire for Orthodox Easter, effective from April 11 at 16:00 to April 12 at 24:00 in Moscow. The Russian Armed Forces have been instructed to cease all combat operations during this period. Ukraine is encouraged to reciprocate the ceasefire. The announcement follows a statement from Ukrainian President Zelensky, indicating Ukraine's readiness for a ceasefire during the holiday.
- President Putin announced a ceasefire during Orthodox Easter.
- The ceasefire is set from April 11, 16:00 to April 12, 24:00.
- The Russian Defense Minister and Chief of General Staff received orders to halt operations during the ceasefire.
- Ukraine is expected to follow suit regarding the ceasefire.
- Orthodox Easter is on April 12 this year.