KYIV, Ukraine (AP) – In a tragic incident in Odesa overnight from Friday to Saturday, Russian drone strikes resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals, as reported by local authorities. This attack occurred just before a proposed ceasefire aimed at coinciding with Orthodox Easter.
The drone strikes targeted a residential area, injuring two others and causing significant damage to apartment buildings, houses, and a kindergarten in the city, which is located along the Black Sea.
Ukrainian Air Force officials indicated that Russia launched a total of 160 drones during the night, with 133 intercepted or shot down. Concurrently, Russia's Defense Ministry claimed to have downed 99 Ukrainian drones that were launched against its territory and occupied Crimea.
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a temporary 32-hour ceasefire starting at 4 p.m. on Saturday and running through Sunday as part of the Orthodox Easter observance. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed Ukraine’s commitment to adhere to this ceasefire, framing it as an opportunity for peace, though he cautioned that any violations would provoke a swift military response.
Zelenskyy emphasized the significance of Easter as a time for "silence and safety," suggesting that the ceasefire could be a step towards a genuine movement toward peace. However, he was also cautious, acknowledging the realities of the situation and asserting that Ukraine would respond "strictly in kind" to any breaches of the ceasefire.
Prior to the ceasefire announcement, Ukraine had proposed a mutual pause in attacks on each other’s energy infrastructure during the Orthodox Easter holiday, aiming to de-escalate tensions between the two nations.
The history of ceasefire attempts in this ongoing conflict has been marked by accusations of violations from both sides, leading to little tangible relief for affected populations. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has characterized Putin's ceasefire declaration as a "humanitarian" gesture, while reiterating that Moscow remains focused on securing a comprehensive settlement that aligns with its longstanding demands. These demands continue to be a significant barrier to any fruitful negotiations.
Discussions around possible prisoner exchanges during the Easter weekend have also emerged, with Russia's human rights ombudswoman Tatyana Moskalkova stating that both sides are exploring this option. Periodic exchanges of prisoners have been one of the few notable outcomes from what have otherwise been stalled negotiations over the conflict, which is now in its fifth year and remains unresolved on crucial issues related to Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
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