Russian forces, under the pretext of the so-called “great truce,” are actively preparing routes for moving heavy equipment in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine
This points to a systematic strategy by the Russian military aimed at restoring and intensifying ground operations, despite official attempts to declare a "ceasefire" on Easter. According to Ukrainian military sources, including those from the 66th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade named after Prince Mstislav the Brave, which is actively operating in the Lyman direction, the enemy is deploying heavy equipment for regrouping and further offensive actions. For instance, on April 9, a unit of Ukrainian soldiers destroyed a complex known as KRV-VD — a mobile road deployment installation mounted on a KAMAZ truck — in this area. This strategic destruction blocked crossing the Black Zherebets River, thus complicating the Russians’ ability to use armored vehicles for assault operations, including crossing this water obstacle. As of today, April 20, Ukrainian forces are noting attempts by the Russians to restore and clear damaged sections of the crossing. According to their reports, more than ten Russian personnel are working at the site, utilizing specialized equipment, including vehicles for clearing the aftermath of destroyed equipment. Additionally, there is an increase in assault actions by Russian infantry, characterized by a determined effort to break through Ukrainian positions, indicating the enemy’s intention to regain control in strategic areas. It is important to note that this situation unfolds ahead of the festive holiday period. On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a so-called "Easter ceasefire," purportedly involving a suspension of hostilities in Ukraine from the evening of April 19 until midnight on April 21. Officially, Russia’s Ministry of Defense states that a ceasefire regime is being observed by mutual agreement of both sides, with the possibility of extension if Ukraine adheres to the terms. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Saturday evening that Kyiv would respond with mirror measures if Russia violates the ceasefire conditions. Currently, the situation at the front suggests otherwise: Ukrainian defenders report ongoing shelling, increased hostile actions, including the use of kamikaze drones. Monitoring services, including the DeepState project, confirm that the level of combat activity remains high on most fronts. According to their data, between April 20 and 21, Russian forces more frequently employ artillery and kamikaze drones, indicating their lack of intention to cease hostilities and their attempts to portray the "militarized ceasefire" as something genuine and ongoing. Thus, despite Moscow’s official statements about a "temporary truce," the real battlefield situation tells a different story: Russians continue active preparatory work, intensify efforts in logistics, and concentrate forces for large-scale offensive operations. Ukrainian defenders, on their part, are united in the aim of halting the enemy and maintaining control over their territories, despite the illusions of a "ceasefire" and attempts to use it as tactical cover. The war continues, and each day brings new challenges and trials for the Ukrainian people and their defense.