Britain has called on Russia to agree to a complete and permanent ceasefire in Ukraine, dismissing President Vladimir Putin’s recent 30-hour Easter break as a symbolic gesture that lacked sincerity. The UK call comes after warnings from the US of walking away from peace negotiations unless both parties demonstrate genuine commitment to stopping the war.
Though Ukraine is still cautious, citing ongoing Russian shelling, Britain argues that only an indefinite cessation of hostilities can pave the way for serious talks. International friends such as Italy have repeated the call, asserting that temporary suspensions bring minimal relief to civilians or aid workers.
Without substantive action, the world’s trust in Russia’s peace overtures continues to slide.
Putin’s 30-Hour Ceasefire
On April 19, Vladimir Putin made a unilateral Easter ceasefire. It was to go into effect at 6 PM. Moscow time and conclude at midnight on the following day. He invited Ukraine to retaliate. The Kremlin asserted the move would display peace intentions.
Still, the timing has been questioned. Only days ago, the US threatened to pull out of peace talks unless both parties agree to halt fighting. Hence, critics label Putin’s decision as tactical and reactive.
Ukraine Remains Wary
Ukrainian leaders are still not convinced. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated Russia can’t speak peace while conducting attacks. The Russians, according to Ukrainian forces, continued shelling even after the ceasefire was in effect. Therefore, Kyiv was not inclined to suspend its military campaign.
Zelenskyy has also insisted on a complete withdrawal of Russian forces as the prerequisite for peace. Without it, Ukraine finds no reason to believe in Putin’s words.
Britain’s Tough Stand
Britain has reacted firmly. A foreign ministry official stated, “Ukraine has pledged a complete ceasefire. We call on Russia to do the same.” The UK is calling on Russia to demonstrate that it really wants peace.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office further stated, “Now is the time for Putin to demonstrate he is serious.” They emphasized that only a complete ceasefire could lead the way to permanent peace negotiations.
Other Allies Join In
Italy also seconded the UK position. Both countries have advocated for a complete, unconditioned ceasefire. They feel that any pause should result in actual progress—not be a diversion.
While international observers caution that brief pauses provide little respite to civilians, aid workers also indicate humanitarian corridors require longer than one day to function safely.
Prospects: Stalemate or Ceasefire?
The war in Ukraine continues to rage on. With the fighting ongoing, gestures of symbolism stand to lose their credibility. For peace to hold, trust must once again be regained. And for trust, the violence needs to end first.
Unless it does, the world can expect more ceasefire headlines—but less actual peace.
