Why it matters:
The ceasefire order comes at a time when tensions remain high in the region, and both sides have previously struggled to maintain peace agreements. The effectiveness of this ceasefire could impact future negotiations and the humanitarian situation on the ground.
The big picture:
The Kremlin announced that Putin received a report on the status of the front lines in Ukraine during a meeting with Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. The ceasefire is set to take effect from 6:00 PM local time on April 19 until midnight on April 21. This initiative follows a series of failed attempts to establish lasting peace between Ukraine and Russia.
What he's saying:
Putin stated, "I order the cessation of all military actions during this period. We expect the Ukrainian side to do the same."
He also emphasized that Russian soldiers must be prepared to respond to any potential violations of the ceasefire and provocations from the enemy.
Key points:
- The ceasefire will last 30 hours, coinciding with the Easter holiday.
- Previous ceasefires have been repeatedly violated by both sides, raising skepticism about the effectiveness of this latest order.
- The ceasefire was part of a broader peace plan discussed in separate negotiations between the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia.
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