Russia accused of Easter attacks in Ukraine instead of ceasefire

Russia launched hundreds of missiles and drones, killing at least 6 civilians and injuring 40. This is a big increase in attacks during the holiday period.
By Newsroom | World News, Ukraine Conflict |

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of deliberately escalating attacks across Ukraine, coinciding with the Orthodox Easter period, instead of observing a proposed ceasefire. Russia has launched hundreds of drones and missiles, resulting in civilian casualties. Zelensky described this surge as Moscow's "response to our proposal for a cease-fire at Easter." He stated that Ukraine's offer for a holiday truce remains open.

Russia chose 'Easter escalation' over ceasefire, says Zelensky - 1

Civilian Casualties and Infrastructure Attacks

Reports indicate that at least six civilians were killed and 40 others injured due to the widespread missile and drone assaults. The attacks targeted various regions across Ukraine, including front-line areas like Kharkiv, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia, as well as Sumy, Zhytomyr, and Dnipropetrovsk. There were also reports of an attack on a substation in Taganrog, on the Sea of Azov, and debris impacting a vessel. The barrage prompted emergency power outages in several regions.

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Russia chose 'Easter escalation' over ceasefire, says Zelensky - 2

Diplomatic Engagements Amidst Conflict

Zelensky engaged in calls with Pope Leo XIV and referenced discussions with US negotiators, including envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, regarding the ceasefire proposal. Zelensky expressed his hope for a future visit from the pontiff. The Vatican confirmed the Pope's call with Zelensky, stressing the urgency of humanitarian aid. Ukraine has reiterated its openness to various ceasefire arrangements, provided they do not compromise national sovereignty.

Russia chose 'Easter escalation' over ceasefire, says Zelensky - 3

Russia's Stance on Ceasefire Proposals

Russia, however, maintains it has not received a clearly defined proposal for a temporary ceasefire. The Kremlin has dismissed Zelensky's calls for an Easter truce, characterizing the proposals as vague and insufficient for a lasting peace. Russia asserts its focus remains on achieving a broader, long-term settlement.

Russia chose 'Easter escalation' over ceasefire, says Zelensky - 4

Background

Ukraine observes Orthodox Easter next weekend, a holiday also marked in Russia. The proposed truce was intended to offer respite to civilians amidst the ongoing conflict. Zelensky has previously proposed truces for holidays, including a halt to strikes on energy facilities, which he claims were ignored by Moscow. Russia has previously suggested that Ukraine’s proposals lack clarity and that its own actions are a response to perceived "terrorist attacks" and "atrocities" by Ukrainian forces.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Ukraine accusing Russia of 'Easter Escalation'?
Ukraine's President Zelensky says Russia launched many missiles and drones during the Orthodox Easter period. He believes Russia did this instead of agreeing to a proposed ceasefire for the holiday.
Q: What happened because of the increased Russian attacks?
The attacks caused civilian deaths and injuries across Ukraine. At least six people were killed and 40 were hurt. Power outages also happened in some areas.
Q: Did Ukraine's President talk to anyone about a ceasefire?
Yes, President Zelensky spoke with Pope Leo XIV and US negotiators. He hopes the Pope can visit Ukraine. The Vatican confirmed the Pope's call and stressed the need for aid.
Q: What is Russia's reason for not having a ceasefire?
Russia says it has not received a clear plan for a ceasefire. They have called Ukraine's proposals vague. Russia says its actions are in response to what it calls attacks by Ukraine.
Q: What was the goal of Ukraine's proposed Easter truce?
The truce was meant to give civilians a break from the fighting during the important Orthodox Easter holiday. Ukraine has offered similar truces for other holidays before.