Putin Orders Temporary Easter Ceasefire, Reviews Battlefield Progress with Military Leadership

Report By Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered a temporary nationwide ceasefire in honor of the Easter holiday, halting military operations from 6:00 PM on April 19 until midnight on April 21. The decision was announced during a high-level security briefing with Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov at the Kremlin.

Putin called on Ukrainian forces to observe a similar pause in hostilities, emphasizing the humanitarian purpose behind the ceasefire. “We are suspending combat operations during this period and hope the Ukrainian side will act in kind,” he said.

The Russian president instructed military units to remain vigilant and prepared for any potential provocations, citing over 100 past violations by Ukrainian forces targeting civilian energy infrastructure despite prior agreements.

Frontline Status: Kursk and Belgorod Regions

General Gerasimov reported notable advances by Russian forces in the ongoing military operation. He confirmed that nearly the entire Kursk Region, previously infiltrated by Ukrainian troops, has been reclaimed. “Approximately 1,260 square kilometers—99.5% of the region—have been secured,” he stated.

In the Belgorod Region, Russian troops repelled attempted incursions by Ukrainian forces near Demidovka and Popovka. Gerasimov said these infiltration efforts failed, and all major enemy formations were pushed back. “Only small groups remain in the surrounding forests and are currently encircled and under clearance operations,” he added.

Diplomatic Window Remains Open

President Putin reiterated Russia’s openness to peaceful dialogue, noting that Moscow supports any international effort aimed at resolving the conflict. He welcomed interest from global stakeholders, including the United States and China, in facilitating negotiations for a just resolution to the crisis.

The Kremlin said the ceasefire also aims to create space for future diplomacy, even as military preparedness remains a top priority.