Sat Apr 19 14:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Putin Declares Easter Truce in Ukraine Amid US Pressure

**Moscow/Kyiv** – Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a 36-hour Easter truce in Ukraine, effective from 16:00 BST (18:00 Moscow time) today until 22:00 BST tomorrow (midnight Moscow time). The Kremlin stated the move is guided by “humanitarian considerations” and expects Ukraine to reciprocate the ceasefire. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has yet to respond to the announcement.

The surprise declaration comes as the US, under President Trump, has threatened to withdraw from mediating peace talks if either side obstructs progress. Trump previously warned that the US would “take a pass” on brokering further negotiations if a deal isn’t reached swiftly. This pressure follows earlier warnings from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio about potential withdrawal if no progress is evident within days.

While the Russian Ministry of Defence confirmed the cessation of military operations for the specified period, they emphasized that Russian troops remain prepared to respond to any Ukrainian violations or provocations. The duration of the truce remains uncertain, with no indication of whether it will lead to broader peace negotiations. The announcement follows a period of intense fighting, with Zelensky himself recently condemning recent missile strikes on Ukrainian cities. The situation remains highly volatile, and the response from Kyiv will be crucial in determining the impact of Putin’s unilateral truce.

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