Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a comprehensive ceasefire for the duration of the Easter holidays, emphasizing that this sacred time should be defined by peace and security rather than ongoing hostilities. In his evening video address, the Head of State detailed the initiative, which was carefully coordinated during high-level meetings with the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, and the Security Service of Ukraine.
Zelensky noted that Kyiv has repeatedly put forward similar peacekeeping proposals and expressed a sincere hope that this time it might be implemented. He also suggested that a successful Easter ceasefire could ideally be extended further, paving the way for a more sustainable cessation of hostilities.
The proposal has already been formally transmitted to the Russian Federation. According to the Ukrainian President, Moscow’s reaction will serve as a definitive indicator of its true intentions. “If Russia once again chooses war over peace, it will demonstrate to the world—and specifically to the United States—who truly wants what,” Zelensky stated. This diplomatic maneuver is designed to clarify the current geopolitical reality for Ukraine’s Western partners, highlighting the stark contrast between Kyiv’s humanitarian approach and Moscow’s continued aggression.
While offering peace, the Ukrainian leadership remains acutely aware of the historical unreliability of Russian ceasefire commitments. Therefore, strict directives have been issued to the Armed Forces of Ukraine regarding a “mirror response” strategy. The premise is clear: if there are no Russian strikes, there will be no Ukrainian counter-responses. If the skies remain clear of Russian drones and missiles, Ukraine will maintain silence in the air as well. The same principle applies to the entire front line.
However, Zelensky issued a stern caveat, ensuring that the right to self-defense remains inviolable. Every Ukrainian military unit retains the unequivocal right to return fire and protect its positions should the enemy attempt to exploit the proposed truce for tactical gains.
In a related humanitarian development coinciding with the holiday, a significant prisoner exchange successfully took place between Ukraine and Russia. This Easter exchange allowed captured Ukrainians to finally return home, underscoring the potential for positive diplomatic engagements even amid an ongoing full-scale invasion.