Despite a ceasefire order from Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ukrainian soldiers and civilians report ongoing fighting, casting doubt on Moscow’s intentions.
Near the front line in eastern Ukraine, 41-year-old soldier Sergiy, stationed in Kramatorsk, reacted with disbelief when asked about the supposed truce: “Has it started?” he quipped.
Putin announced a three-day ceasefire—from Thursday to Saturday—to coincide with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9. Kyiv, however, dismissed the move as a publicity stunt meant to secure the safety of Moscow’s military parade, expected to host over 20 foreign dignitaries.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga called the order a “farce,” stating that hundreds of Russian attacks had already occurred since the truce was to begin at midnight.
On the ground, Ukrainian soldiers confirmed that the fighting had not stopped. A sergeant near Toretsk said Russian forces were still launching infantry assaults, albeit without air support. A drone unit commander described “medium-intensity fighting” ongoing in the south and east.
Civilians echoed these sentiments. “There’s no trust left,” said Victoria, a 43-year-old bank worker in Kramatorsk. In Kyiv, 73-year-old Anatoly Pavlovych asked, “When has Russia ever kept its promises?”
This ceasefire is Russia’s second short-term truce in a month. A previous 30-hour Easter pause saw reduced fighting but was marred by mutual accusations of violations.
Three years into the invasion, which has displaced millions and killed tens of thousands, hope for peace remains dim. While U.S.-led efforts to broker a lasting ceasefire appear stalled, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky insists that meaningful talks can only follow a sustained halt in hostilities.
Some, like 39-year-old soldier Yuri, acknowledge the harsh reality: “We won’t win physically. Only with pressure from all sides. We lack the numbers and resources.”
Even Zelensky admits diplomacy may be necessary to reclaim occupied territories. Still, both sides show little willingness to compromise.
“Of course, we want peace,” said soldier Andriy. “We want it more than anyone, because we know what death is.”
AFP
