A brief Easter ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine quickly unraveled as both sides traded accusations of violations.
Russia and Ukraine agreed to a 32-hour truce to mark Orthodox Easter, but within hours, both countries reported fresh attacks. Ukraine’s military said Russian forces carried out hundreds of violations, including shelling, drone strikes, and assault operations. It claimed 469 breaches of the ceasefire in a single day, alongside dozens of airstrikes and thousands of drone deployments.
Russia, however, accused Ukraine of launching drone attacks in its border regions of Kursk and Belgorod. Officials said strikes hit civilian targets, including a gas station, leaving several people injured.
Despite the renewed tensions, both sides completed a prisoner swap. Each country released 175 prisoners of war, with Ukraine also securing the return of seven civilians. Officials described the exchange as a significant humanitarian step, even as fighting continued.
The truce had raised hopes of a temporary pause in the conflict, offering relief to civilians and troops after years of war. However, previous ceasefires have also collapsed quickly, fueling skepticism about lasting peace.
Ukraine has reiterated its willingness to extend the ceasefire, while Russia has not committed to a longer halt in hostilities.
The latest developments highlight the fragile state of negotiations, as the war shows no clear path to de-escalation.