Tension between Russia and Ukraine don’t seem to ease as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made fresh attacks on Russia. President Zelenskyy claimed that the Russian offensive has not “subsided” despite Moscow declaring a ceasefire on the occasion of Easter. He stated that Russian assault operations and strikes continue across several frontline sectors. In an X post, he mentioned that the Russian army is one of the biggest threats to Christian churches and believers. “Over the years of full-scale war, 67 Ukrainian priests, pastors and monks have been killed or tortured by Russian occupiers,” stated Zelenskyy.
No Trust In Moscow’s Words: Zelenskyy
Taking to X, Zelenskyy said that there is no “trust” in Moscow’s words. He wrote, “As of now, according to the Commander-in-Chief reports, Russian assault operations continue on several frontline sectors, and Russian artillery fire has not subsided. Therefore, there is no trust in words coming from Moscow. We know all too well how Moscow manipulates, and we are prepared for anything,” Zelenskyy wrote on X.
He further confirmed that Ukraine’s Defense Forces will act rationally against the Russian hostilities. “Ukraine’s Defense Forces will act rationally-responding in kind. Every Russian strike will be met with an appropriate response,” Zelenskyy added.
Zelenskyy Claims Ceasefire Violations
The President alleged Russia’s ceasefire violations citing a report by Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief. He wrote, “We are documenting the actual situation on all directions. The Kursk and Belgorod regions — Easter statements by Putin did not extend to this territory. Hostilities continue, and Russian strikes persist. Russian artillery can still be heard in certain directions of the front, regardless of the Russian leader’s promise of silence. Russian drones are in use. In some areas, the situation has become quieter.”
Zelenskyy highlighted that Ukraine, together with its partners, is ready to move toward peace as constructively as possible, but same readiness is required from Russia.
Moreover, he accused Russia of being the sole cause of this war and of its prolongation.
“What matters most now is that it is finally clear who has truly been the cause of this war all along. The moment Putin actually ordered a reduction in the intensity and brutality of attacks, fighting and killings decreased. The sole cause of this war and of its prolongation lies in Russia,” he added.
Second Ceasefire Since 2022
Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a 30-hour ceasefire in observance of Easter.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Russia shared a video on X, in which Putin stated, “The Russian Side announces an Easter ceasefire from 06:00 pm today to 00:00 am Monday. This is done for humanitarian reasons. I hereby order all military operations ceased for this period.”
It is important to note that this is the second ceasefire to be announced since the conflict began in 2022. Earlier, an attempt at a ceasefire during Orthodox Christmas in January 2023 failed. After that, both Russia and Ukraine were unable to agree on a proposal.
It is important to note that this is the second ceasefire to be announced since the conflict began in 2022. Earlier, an attempt at a ceasefire during Orthodox Christmas in January 2023 failed. After that, both Russia and Ukraine were unable to agree on a proposal.
