Ukraine, U.S., UK, France to hold talks in London on ceasefire deal with Russia

This was announced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after a conversation with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

"Already on Wednesday, our representatives will be working in London — Ukraine, the UK, France, the United States. We are ready to continue moving forward as constructively as possible to achieve an unconditional ceasefire, followed by the establishment of a real and lasting peace," Zelenskyy wrote.

He thanked all partners who are providing assistance and emphasized that "an unconditional ceasefire must be the first step toward peace, and this Easter has shown that it is Russia’s actions that are the reason for the war's prolongation."

Zelenskyy and Starmer also discussed joint efforts within European security frameworks.

What is known about Putin's "Easter ceasefire"

Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin unilaterally announced an "Easter ceasefire" starting at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 19.  

Until 6:00 p.m., an air raid alert was ongoing in Kyiv. Reconnaissance drones were being shot down over the city's left bank. 

At 5:30 p.m., the Russian forces launched a missile strike on the town of Izium in the Kharkiv region. After 6:00 p.m., destructive strikes by Russian FPV drones continued to be recorded in the Kherson region.

After 9:00 p.m. on April 19, Ukrainian Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief provided the president with fresh data from all frontlines regarding the Russian compliance with the conditions of the "Easter ceasefire." It was reported that in some areas of the front, the ceasefire was not being observed, while in others, it had become quieter.

As of the morning of Easter, April 20, the Russian army was trying to create the general impression of a ceasefire at the front, but continued some attempts to advance and inflict losses on Ukraine.  

Russian troops also used the "ceasefire" on April 20 to prepare for the resumption of assault operations in the area of responsibility of the 66th Brigade named after Prince Mstislav the Brave.  

On April 21, the Russian Defense Ministry announced the end of the "Easter ceasefire" and the continuation of the so-called special military operation. They also accused Ukraine of violating the terms.