During Russia's proposed ceasefire, Ukrainian soldiers reported ongoing attacks and civilians recounted their fears and frustrations. Both sides struggle with trust, and local voices reflect the chaos and hopelessness of the situation.
Ukraine Rejects Russian Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Attacks and Civilian Despair
Ukraine Rejects Russian Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Attacks and Civilian Despair
Despite a supposed ceasefire declared by Russia, reality on the ground in Ukraine reveals continuous conflict, with soldiers and civilians expressing skepticism and fear.
As the clock struck midnight in eastern Ukraine, marking the beginning of Russia’s announced three-day ceasefire, reality belied the expectations set by the Kremlin. Soldiers stationed in the Donetsk region reported relentless attacks, dispelling any notion of a temporary halt in hostilities. “You don’t think about things like that here,” remarked Max, a 26-year-old soldier, when asked about the ceasefire's significance.
In an area southwest of the contested city of Pokrovsk, where artillery positions are set up, sounds of incoming and outgoing mortar fire echoed, indicating that the ceasefire was not respected on the frontlines. Serhii, another soldier from the 3rd Operational Brigade of the National Guard, expressed his distrust, noting, “Yes, they have been attacking overnight… There is no truce.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin had declared the ceasefire to coincide with Victory Day, a significant public holiday in Russia, yet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky promptly rejected the unilateral ceasefire, instead advocating for a more enduring solution. His call for a 30-day truce, backed by the U.S., was reiterated amidst threats of further sanctions on Russia should they fail to uphold a ceasefire.
Amidst the warfare, civilians like Svitlana, who relocated to Dobropillya from the war-torn Pokrovsk, echoed the sentiment of skepticism towards the ceasefire. “That is the sound of Russia’s ceasefire,” she stated, referring to the continuous explosions. “We should never trust them,” she added, revealing the fear and uncertainty that haunt many who have fled their homes for safety.
The tension is palpable in the markets of Dobropillya, where 65-year-old Oleksandr expressed his unease about the ongoing violence, stating, “I'm afraid… I’m scared we might be forced to flee our homes.” His concerns reflect a broader narrative of despair among those caught in the relentless conflict.
As the war drags on, both sides appear locked in a cycle of attrition, leading soldiers like Max to adopt a mindset of resilience: “You have to have 'tunnel vision.' You can't let emotions dictate your actions.” The situation remains precarious, with the outlook on peace appearing ever more remote.
