Kyiv — Ukraine has reported several Russian drone attacks across multiple regions just hours after a brief “Easter truce” that temporarily put an end to fighting over Orthodox Easter weekend. These strikes by Iranian-made Shahed drones have increased fears of renewed escalation as diplomatic efforts for peace continue stalling.
According to Ukraine’s Air Force, over 20 drones were launched by Russian forces overnight against infrastructure in the southern and eastern regions of Ukraine. Explosions were reported in Odesa, Dnipro and Kharkiv; with air defense systems intercepting many of the drones; however some still managed to hit their targets, damaging energy facilities and leading to power outages in some locations.
Emergency services confirmed that at least three civilians, including one child, were injured in these attacks and several homes destroyed in Odesa and Odesa Port respectively. A grain storage facility near the port in Odesa was hit during these assaults as well, raising additional concerns over Ukraine’s food export routes.
Volodymyr Zelensky strongly condemned the renewed strikes as “a shameful violation of Easter.” He accused Russia of using religious holidays as excuses to rearm and reposition forces; even during holy times “the aggressor shows no respect for peace or life,” Zelensky stated during a national address.
The Russian Ministry of Defense has not issued a direct statement about drone operations but instead maintains that all military actions taken are directed toward neutralizing Ukrainian military targets.
Though never officially agreed upon by both sides, Easter truce had brought a temporary cessation in large-scale combat operations from Friday through Sunday. Religious leaders from both Ukraine and Russia had called for restraint during this holiday period; however, with hostilities back on track now there seems little chance for similar humanitarian pauses in future.
International responses have been swift. The UN expressed deep alarm over the return to violence, and called upon both parties involved to prioritize protecting civilians and critical infrastructure. European Union officials voiced support for Ukraine while condemning attacks as being in violation of international norms.
Peace talks appear to have broken down and military activity has intensified again, prompting analysts to warn of increased conflicts in Donetsk and Luhansk over the next several weeks.