Ukraine to match Russian ceasefire violations 'in mirror' during Orthodox Easter
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Saturday, April 11, that his forces will observe the Orthodox Easter ceasefire exclusively through a policy of strict reciprocity. Kyiv remains prepared to deliver a "mirror response" to any Russian military violations.
The announcement came hours before the truce, brokered for the Easter holiday, was scheduled to take effect at 16:00 local time (13:00 GMT). Zelensky emphasized that the Ukrainian military has already established clear parameters for responding to potential breaches.
"Ukraine will respect the period of calm and will act solely in a symmetric manner," Zelensky stated. He clarified that the absence of Russian strikes by air, land, or sea would result in a corresponding lack of Ukrainian military action.
The Ukrainian leader met with the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces to synchronize troop maneuvers under the temporary truce conditions. Despite the preparations, Zelensky reiterated that Kyiv views the holiday as a strategic opportunity for genuine de-escalation.
This temporary cessation of hostilities occurs as US-led diplomatic efforts to end the four-year conflict have significantly slowed. While a similar truce was attempted during the previous year's Easter, it was marred by immediate and mutual accusations of violations.
Moscow has been formally notified that Ukraine’s adherence to the ceasefire is contingent upon Russian conduct, with the possibility of extension remaining on the table if stability is maintained.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
