The Kremlin made a statement regarding the extension of the 'Easter truce'.

Putin did not extend the 'Easter truce'

Spokesman for Vladimir Putin, Dmitry Peskov, states that the president himself did not issue an order to extend the 'Easter truce', which was supposed to halt hostilities until April 21. This was reported by the propaganda agency TASS.

Earlier, Putin announced a ceasefire from April 19 to April 21, but noted that Russian troops must be ready to defend in case of violations and provocations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky initially criticized Putin's statement, calling it 'another attempt to play with people's lives'. But later he stated that Ukraine is ready to join a complete ceasefire and act in accordance with the Russian Federation - 'silence in response to silence, strikes in defense against strikes'. Zelensky also offered to extend the 'Easter truce' for 30 days if there is genuine peace.

According to the BBC, some Ukrainian military personnel immediately after the start of the 'Easter truce' received orders to cease fire on Russian positions.

Despite Russia's statements about adhering to the truce, Ukrainian military reported to President Zelensky about the continuation of assaults and shelling.