Putin Declares Ceasefire with Ukraine for Orthodox Easter Amid Ongoing Conflict
Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a 32-hour ceasefire with Ukraine to coincide with the Orthodox Easter holiday. This decision follows an earlier proposal from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who had suggested a pause in hostilities during the Easter period. The ceasefire is set to begin at 4 p.m. Saturday and last until the end of Sunday. The Kremlin has instructed Russian forces to halt combat operations during this time, while remaining prepared to counter any provocations or aggressive actions. The United States has been mediating talks between Moscow and Kyiv as the conflict enters its fifth year. Despite previous attempts to secure ceasefires, including a 30-hour ceasefire last Easter, both sides have accused each other of violations. The ongoing war has seen Russia occupy approximately 20% of Ukraine's internationally recognized territory, including Crimea and parts of several regions. 
