The European Commission has expressed cautious skepticism regarding the Kremlin’s announced “Easter truce” and emphasized that a genuine cessation of aggression is only possible if Russia abandons its aggressive intentions and fulfills long-term obligations to stop hostilities
In response to Vladimir Putin’s statement, European officials are calling on Moscow to abandon its position as aggressor and to undertake real and decisive actions that would demonstrate a genuine readiness to end the war. As noted by European Commission spokesperson Carolina Hippner, Russia could immediately cease military actions and return to diplomatic negotiations; however, at present, it does not appear to have a true desire to do so. Hippner reminded that since Ukraine agreed to an unconditional and comprehensive ceasefire over a month ago, Russian troops are still engaged in active combat, including shelling and assault operations. She emphasized that Moscow has both the capacity and the desire to halt hostilities at any moment if there is truly political will to do so. At the same time, the European Commission continues to support Ukraine in its pursuit of a long-term, just, and comprehensive peace that is guaranteed and stable for all parties involved. Meanwhile, the situation in Ukraine remains tense. On the morning of April 20, President Volodymyr Zelensky published the daily report of Commander-in-Chief Syrsky on the situation at the front. According to him, at least 59 Russian shellings and five assault operations were carried out overnight and into the morning by occupying forces. Zelensky stressed that the situation remains difficult: the Russian army is attempting to create the illusion of a ceasefire, but in some areas, active attempts to advance and inflict losses on Ukraine continue. The President emphasized that Ukraine is diligently fulfilling its commitments regarding the ceasefire. Specifically, the Twitter account of the Office of the President reported that Ukraine confirms its agreement to extend the indefinite silence on conditions that include a 30-day "freeze" of hostilities starting after midnight on April 24. At the same time, the Ukrainian leader added that the country will act according to the actual situation at the front and will respond appropriately in case of violations. A few hours earlier, on April 19, Vladimir Putin officially announced an "Easter truce" — a pledge to cease all hostilities from the evening of April 19 until midnight on April 21. This statement received sharp criticism in Kyiv, where alerts and numerous reports of possible Russian military maneuvers immediately followed. The Ukrainian president pointed out that the alert sounded even before the announced "ceasefire" ended and emphasized the importance of an objective and critical approach to such statements. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiga noted that more than a month ago, at the initiative of the United States, Ukraine agreed to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire. This was a considered and strategic proposal that preceded Russia’s statement and its declaration of an "Easter truce." However, Moscow has yet to demonstrate any signs of willingness to exercise restraint or engage in dialogue; on the contrary, hostilities continue, with Ukrainian defenders recording new shellings and attempted breakthroughs. Overall, the international community remains cautious and persistently urges a true and lasting end to the war. It is crucial at this moment that Russia fulfills its obligations, and that all parties return to diplomacy based on respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Nevertheless, the situation remains open, and any maneuvers by Moscow could lead to a new escalation of the conflict or a resolution in the near future.