"We Have No Trust in Russia; They Have Attacked Even After Announcements in the Past" – President Zelenskyy

"We Have No Trust in Russia; They Have Attacked Even After Announcements in the Past" – President Zelenskyy

Kyiv, April 20, 2025:
Despite Russian President Vladimir Putin’s announcement of a 30-hour unilateral Easter ceasefire in Ukraine on Saturday, Ukraine has claimed that Russian forces are still attacking using drones and shelling.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), said that air raid sirens rang across the country shortly after Putin’s declaration.
“At this moment, air raid alerts are active across Ukraine. Shahed drones are flying in our skies, revealing Putin’s true attitude toward Easter and human life,” Zelenskyy stated.

According to Russian sources, the ceasefire was to begin at 6:00 PM (Moscow time) on Saturday, following a meeting between President Putin and Russian General Staff Chief Valery Gerasimov. Putin called on Kyiv to honor the truce and show goodwill, calling it an example of humanity.

However, Putin also warned Russian forces to be alert in case Ukrainian forces violate the ceasefire during the 30-hour window.

Ukraine’s Reaction

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha responded strongly, saying, “We do not trust Russia’s words. History has repeatedly shown a gap between their statements and actions.” He added, “We believe in actions, not words.”

Andriy Kovalenko, an official with Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, also stated that despite the ceasefire announcement, Russia continued its attacks on several Ukrainian cities.

“The Russians are firing on all fronts. The heaviest shelling is in the East. So much for Putin’s so-called ceasefire—it means nothing,” wrote Kovalenko.

Doubts Among Frontline Soldiers

International news agency AFP reported skepticism among Ukrainian soldiers on the frontlines regarding the truce.

One soldier told AFP: “I think Putin is a cruel murderer. He might make such announcements to appear humane, but we know this 30-hour ceasefire will lead to nothing. We don’t trust him.”

Summary:

• Putin announced a 30-hour Easter ceasefire in Ukraine.

• Ukraine claims Russia continues drone attacks and shelling.

• Kyiv: “We trust actions, not words.”

• Eastern Ukraine sees the heaviest bombardment.

• Ukrainian soldiers remain doubtful about the ceasefire.

International observers are calling the ceasefire a strategic propaganda move. Ukraine insists it’s merely a “mask of humanity.”