Ukraine ready to act accordingly if Russia agrees to ceasefire, Zelenskyy says

The President noted that the proposal for a full and unconditional ceasefire for 30 days has remained unanswered by Russia for 39 days. Ukraine responded positively to the US proposal, while Moscow responded negatively. However, if Russia is ready for silence, the response will be mirror-like.

"If Russia is now suddenly ready to truly engage in a format of full and unconditional silence, Ukraine will act accordingly — mirroring Russia’s actions. Silence in response to silence, defensive strikes in response to attacks. If a complete ceasefire truly takes hold, Ukraine proposes extending it beyond Easter Day on April 20. That is what will reveal Russia’s true intentions — because 30 hours is enough to make headlines, but not for genuine confidence-building measures. Thirty days could give peace a chance," the message reads.

Zelenskyy added that, as of now, according to the report from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Russia's assault actions continue on certain parts of the front. Hostile artillery fire also remains ongoing.

"Therefore, there is no trust in words coming from Moscow. We know all too well how Moscow manipulates, and we are prepared for anything. Ukraine’s Defense Forces will act rationally and respond in kind. Every Russian strike will be met with an appropriate response," Zelenskyy emphasized.

The President added that he expects detailed reports from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, at 9:30 PM and 10:00 PM Kyiv time after his communication with brigade commanders and other frontline units regarding the situation on specific fronts.

Yermak’s response

The proposal from Russian President Vladimir Putin was also commented on by the Head of the President’s Office, Andriy Yermak. He also noted that on March 11, the US made a proposal that Ukraine agreed to, but Russia continued to strike civilians, killing people and children.

The Head of the President’s Office emphasized that Ukraine needs an unconditional ceasefire, and Ukraine will respond to it with silence. According to him, after April 20, the ceasefire must be extended. However, as of now, Russia has not fully implemented this as promised.

"We need an unconditional ceasefire. Ukraine will respond to silence with silence, and to a ceasefire with a ceasefire. It is important that if the fire truly stops now, it should continue after April 20. Russia must stop the fire permanently and end the war. We are ready for anything, and the army is as well. As of now, Russia has not fully stopped the fire as promised," Yermak said.

Putin announces Easter ceasefire

Today, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the Easter ceasefire. According to him, it will be in effect from 6:00 PM today until midnight on April 21, Moscow time.

Putin also stated that he had ordered all combat operations to be stopped.

"We assume that the Ukrainian side will follow our example. However, our troops must be prepared to repel any violations of the ceasefire and provocations from the enemy, as well as any aggressive actions on its part," the Russian president added.