In a significant development amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a temporary unilateral ceasefire, effective from 6 p.m. local time on Saturday, April 19, until midnight on Sunday, April 20. The Kremlin described this gesture as a humanitarian initiative coinciding with Orthodox Easter celebrations. Putin instructed Russian forces to halt all military operations during this period but also ordered them to remain on high alert, anticipating potential violations by Ukrainian forces.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed skepticism regarding Russia’s commitment to the ceasefire. He reported that Russian artillery attacks and drone strikes continued throughout the night, undermining the truce’s credibility. Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine would reciprocate a genuine and full ceasefire but noted that Russia’s actions did not align with such a commitment.
Simultaneously, a significant prisoner exchange occurred, facilitated by the United Arab Emirates, marking the largest such swap since the conflict’s onset. Russia returned 277 Ukrainian soldiers, while Ukraine released 246 Russian troops, alongside medical exchanges for wounded personnel. This development was seen as a positive humanitarian step amid the ongoing hostilities.
The ceasefire announcement comes at a time when international diplomatic efforts are intensifying. U.S. officials have warned that time is running out for peace negotiations, with a key deadline approaching on April 30. The situation remains fluid, and the international community continues to monitor developments closely.
