Putin’s Easter Ceasefire Collapses Amid Fresh Accusations

Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of breaching a temporary Easter ceasefire announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin, raising fresh doubts over the prospects for even short-term de-escalation in the ongoing war.

The ceasefire, declared by Moscow to coincide with Easter celebrations, was intended to pause hostilities along the frontlines. However, within hours of its implementation, both sides reported continued shelling and military activity.

Ukrainian officials said Russian forces carried out artillery strikes and drone attacks in several areas along the eastern front, describing the ceasefire as a “propaganda gesture” rather than a genuine attempt at peace. Kyiv maintained that its forces were responding defensively to ongoing aggression.

Meanwhile, Russian authorities claimed that Ukrainian troops violated the truce by launching attacks on Russian positions, accusing Kyiv of undermining humanitarian efforts tied to the holiday period.

Independent verification of the battlefield claims remains difficult, as access to conflict areas are limited, and both sides continue to control the flow of information.

The development reflects a pattern seen throughout the conflict, where proposed ceasefires often linked to religious or humanitarian occasions have failed to hold, with both parties accusing each other of bad faith.

Analysts say the mutual accusations highlight the deep mistrust between Moscow and Kyiv, with neither side willing to concede ground or risk strategic disadvantage, even during symbolic pauses in fighting.

The war, now stretching into another year, continues to exact a heavy toll on civilians and infrastructure, with repeated calls from the international community for a sustained ceasefire yet to yield lasting results.