Russia chose ‘Easter escalation’ over ceasefire, says Zelensky
Russia chose ‘Easter escalation’ over ceasefire, says Zelensky
Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, has criticized Moscow for prioritizing an “Easter escalation” over a potential ceasefire following a new wave of drone and missile strikes. The attacks, which have grown more frequent during daylight hours, claimed six civilian lives and wounded 40 others across the nation. Reports indicate hundreds of aerial weapons were deployed, intensifying pressure on Ukrainian cities.
Despite the ongoing bombardment, Zelensky noted that the frontline in eastern Ukraine has seen a notable slowdown in Russian advances. This shift, he said, represents the “most favourable” conditions for his forces in over a decade. However, the relentless air raids continue, with rescue teams in Zhytomyr uncovering bodies from homes reduced to rubble. In Kyiv, a drone strike targeted a residential block, igniting a fire and causing significant damage.
Meanwhile, a woman was killed and several others critically injured in Kharkiv during what the mayor labeled the city’s “biggest” bombardment yet. Zelensky linked these strikes to his recent proposal for a temporary truce during the Easter holidays, which both Ukraine and Russia observe. “The Russians have only intensified their strikes, turning what should have been silence in the skies into an Easter escalation,” he stated in a message on X.
Ukraine has retaliated by launching deep strikes into Russian territory, particularly targeting energy infrastructure. Drones have repeatedly hit the port of Ust-Luga, disrupting exports. Zelensky emphasized that the ceasefire offer remains open if Moscow agrees, adding that the proposal was relayed to U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner during recent discussions.
However, talks between Ukraine and Russia have been delayed twice, now postponed due to the U.S. shifting its focus to the Middle East conflict. Zelensky welcomed Trump’s team to Kyiv for negotiations but questioned Moscow’s commitment to peace. He also warned of potential shortages in U.S. defensive missiles, as Patriot systems are diverted to support operations in Iran.
While acknowledging a “stable” frontline, Zelensky stressed that Ukraine’s primary goal is to maintain its defensive position rather than pursue large-scale offensives. The war’s impact on energy markets has created a paradox: while Ukraine faces fuel shortages, Russia benefits from increased exports to sustain its military operations. “This is extremely difficult – perhaps one of the most challenging tasks,” he said, highlighting the complexities of balancing defense and diplomacy.
