Russia may end energy ceasefire and intensify strikes – ISW
Photo: Russia may declare an end to the energy ceasefire and intensify shelling (Getty Images)
Russia may soon declare the end of its so-called energy ceasefire and increase strikes on Ukrainian territory, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
The exact terms of the ceasefire, including its end date, remain unclear. However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told the Russian media that there are no energy agreements and reminded that Russia rejected Washington’s proposal for a full 30-day ceasefire.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on April 15 that the Russian Defense Ministry would clarify the ceasefire’s expiration date, adding that "everything will depend on further orders from the Supreme Commander-in-Chief (Putin - ed.)."
ISW also noted that since March 18, Russian officials have regularly accused Ukraine of violating the energy ceasefire without providing any evidence.
"Russian forces may intensify long-range strikes against Ukraine in the coming days as the ceasefire comes to an end," the ISW added.
Energy ceasefire
In March, Ukraine accepted Washington’s proposal for a 30-day ceasefire. However, Russia refused to support the initiative, claiming the deal wouldn’t solve its problems. Still, Moscow agreed without additional conditions to a mutual halt on strikes targeting energy infrastructure. Despite this, Russia continued daily attacks on Ukraine, including attacks on power facilities.
More details on the ceasefire and what Ukraine, the US, and Russia have said about it in the material by RBC-Ukraine.
