Ongoing Conflicts Persist Across the Russian Border, Says Ukrainian President

The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, has reported that fighting continues on Russian territory despite a ceasefire announced by Moscow in observance of the Easter holiday. He noted that artillery fire remains active along various fronts within Ukraine, though he acknowledged that the situation has calmed in certain areas.

The unexpected declaration of a 30-hour ceasefire by Russian President Vladimir Putin applies primarily to the conflict zone in Ukraine. However, Zelensky emphasized that hostilities continue in Russian border regions such as Kursk and Belgorod, where Ukrainian forces have made incursions. He further stated that Russian attacks are ongoing in these areas. Zelensky indicated that he would receive further updates from the front lines overnight.

According to Zelensky, the sound of Russian artillery can still be heard in some sectors of Ukraine, and Russian drones remain operational. He asserted that the Ukrainian military's response will mirror the actions taken by Russia. He reiterated Ukraine's readiness for an unconditional ceasefire lasting 30 days.

Zelensky characterized the ceasefire announcement by Putin as a reflection of the true nature of responsibility for the ongoing conflict. He claimed that the intensity and brutality of attacks have diminished following Putin's directive for a reduction in hostilities. Zelensky pointed out that the protracted nature of the war is fundamentally rooted in Russia's actions.

Putin's sudden announcement of a ceasefire came in the afternoon, indicating a temporary halt to hostilities until midnight local time on Easter Sunday. The situation remains fluid, and developments are being monitored closely as both sides navigate the complexities of the conflict.