Warring Sides Accuse Each Other of Violating Orthodox Easter Truce

Despite a fragile truce established for Orthodox Easter, Ukraine and Russia continue to accuse each other of ceasefire violations, with Russia refusing to extend the agreement unless Kyiv meets its demands.

The ongoing war in Ukraine saw both sides trading accusations of violating a truce intended for Orthodox Easter, marking the fifth year of the conflict. The ceasefire was initiated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and subsequently ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin, but quickly devolved into continued fighting. Despite the agreement, significant ceasefire violations were recorded. As of 7:00 am on April 12th, the Ukrainian military’s general staff reported 2,299 violations, including 28 assault actions, 479 shellings, 747 drone strikes (both attack and FPV drones), and 1,045 strikes via drones. Russia’s Ministry of Defence countered with claims of nearly 2,000 breaches, detailing 1,971 violations between April 12th and April 12th. Their report cited 258 artillery/tank fires, 1,329 FPV drone strikes, and 375 instances of "various types of munitions" delivered via drones. The ministry also alleged three nighttime attacks against Russian positions and four attempts to advance along the front line, claiming to have successfully thwarted these attempts. The Kremlin maintained its stance, stating that Russia would not extend the truce unless Kyiv accepted its terms. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized the need to secure Russia's interests and achieve its initial goals, suggesting a resolution could be reached "literally today." He highlighted Russia's continued intention to control 17-18% of the disputed Donetsk region and reiterated the continuation of the “special military operation.” Despite the ongoing accusations, there were some indications of a slight improvement. The Ukrainian military reported no long-range Shahed drone attacks, guided aerial bombings, or missile strikes. In the Kharkiv region, Lieutenant Colonel Vasyl Kobziak reported “rather calm” conditions, allowing his brigade to attend an Easter Sunday mass. However, he acknowledged that the truce had not been "fully" observed. Throughout the conflict, Ukraine has faced near-nightly drone barrages from Russia, prompting retaliatory strikes from Kyiv. DATA: * **Conflict:** War in Ukraine * **Parties Involved:** Ukraine, Russia * **Ceasefire:** Established for Orthodox Easter * **Date of Initial Truce:** April 12th (dates vary depending on reporting - see details above) * **Number of Ukrainian Violations (April 12th):** 2,299 * **Number of Russian Violations (April 12th):** 1,971 * **Russian Objectives:** Control 17-18% of the disputed Donetsk region, securing Russia’s interests. * **Kremlin Stance:** Will not extend truce unless Kyiv accepts its terms.