**Russia Uses Easter Ceasefire to Reinforce Positions and Prepare for Renewed Assaults**
As Ukraine celebrates Easter, Russia has been using the supposed temporary ceasefire to reinforce its positions and prepare for renewed assaults in Kharkiv Oblast. According to a spokesperson for Ukraine’s 13th National Guard Khartiia Brigade, Russian forces have been actively amassing personnel during this period.
The statement comes as Ukraine accuses Russia of multiple violations of the Easter truce, with Moscow continuing to reject a broader ceasefire deal supported by Kyiv and Washington. Although Russian artillery fire has decreased, drone attacks on Ukrainian positions have intensified.
**A “Humanitarian” Gesture or a Trap?**
Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the so-called Easter ceasefire on April 19, framing it as a “humanitarian” gesture. However, this move has been met with skepticism by Ukraine and its allies. President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that Russia used the holiday truce to stage nearly 3,000 ceasefire violations, citing briefings from Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.
**Ukrainian Units Maintain Defensive Posture**
Despite the Russian buildup, Ukrainian units in the Kharkiv Oblast have maintained a strictly defensive posture. According to the Khartiia Brigade, their forces are firing only in response to direct Russian attacks to defend troops and hold the line.
**No Signs of Change in Russian Plans**
Russia has been pressing a new spring offensive in Ukraine’s northeast, with Zelensky warning earlier this month that attacks on Kharkiv and Sumy oblasts are part of broader plans to seize large parts of territory. “They have not changed their plans,” he said, noting a continued Russian focus on Donetsk, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts.
**A Full Ceasefire Remains Elusive**
It has been more than a month since Russia rejected a full 30-day ceasefire suggested by the U.S. administration. Kyiv maintains it is ready for a complete ceasefire if Moscow agrees to reciprocate. However, with Russian forces continuing to accumulate in key areas, the prospect of a full ceasefire remains elusive.
**The War Continues**
The Easter truce has provided little respite from the conflict. Ukrainian units have maintained a defensive posture, responding only to direct Russian attacks. The Khartiia Brigade’s spokesperson noted that drone attacks on Ukrainian positions have intensified, despite the supposed ceasefire.
As the war continues, the international community remains divided over how to respond to Russia’s actions. While some countries call for increased diplomatic efforts, others advocate for tougher sanctions and military aid to Ukraine.
