Ukrainian troops ordered to hold fire after Putin's ceasefire declaration - BBC
Photo: Ukrainian soldiers are allegedly ordered to record ceasefire violations by Russia (Getty Images)
Ukrainian troops were ordered to cease fire on Saturday, February 19, after a ceasefire was declared by Vladimir Putin, reports the BBC.
According to a senior Ukrainian military official, his unit and others received an order to stop firing on Russian positions just minutes after 6:00 PM Moscow time (the time from which, according to Russian President Vladimir Putin, the ceasefire was supposed to begin).
The officer told the publication that units were instructed to document violations of the ceasefire with photos and videos, and to return fire if necessary.
A BBC source revealed that the announcement "caught everyone by surprise." While most wish for a ceasefire, confusion still reigns on the front lines regarding what it will actually entail.
Background
Earlier today, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a 30-hour Easter ceasefire. According to his statement, full cessation of hostilities is in effect from 6:00 PM on April 19 to midnight on April 21 Moscow time.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed to the ceasefire, noting that Ukraine's response would be reciprocal if there is silence. The President also called for the ceasefire to continue if it indeed holds.
