Russia using “Easter truce” to gain tactical advantage – Ukraine's 66th Brigade

This was reported by the brigade's press service.

According to the military, at 9:20 p.m. on April 19, Russian forces heavily shelled Ukrainian positions with four guns.

In addition, as of 12:00 p.m. on April 20, Russian troops are using strike drones against the brigade’s positions. Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance is also spotting the movement of Russian infantry toward the front line, including with RPGs and machine guns.

"To sum up: the Russians are currently using the so-called 'lull' to improve their tactical position — to regroup and to build up forces for another insidious attack. We continue to hold the defense firmly, staying alert. Our fire is only defensive!" the 66th Separate Brigade emphasized.

Russia self-declares "Easter truce"

Vladimir Putin unilaterally announced an “Easter truce” beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 19, 2025.

Leading up to 6:00 p.m., air raid alerts continued in Kyiv, and Russian drones were shot down over the capital’s Left Bank.

At 5:30 p.m., Russia launched a missile strike on Izyum in the Kharkiv region. Even after the announced start of the truce, Russian FPV drones continued hitting targets in the Kherson region.

After 9:00 p.m. on April 19, Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief briefed President Zelenskyy with updated information from all frontline sectors regarding the implementation of Putin’s so-called “Easter truce.” At that time, it was reported that while some areas had quieted down, others remained active with ongoing hostilities.

As of Easter morning, April 20, Russian forces appear to be trying to create the impression of a ceasefire at the front, but are still carrying out isolated attacks and attempting to push forward in some areas.