Introduction

The Kremlin announced a 72-hour ceasefire in Ukraine’s Donbas region, ostensibly to allow humanitarian aid and civilian evacuations. However, reports from Ukrainian soldiers reveal a starkly different reality—one marked by continued shelling and tactical maneuvering by Russian forces. In this blog, we explore the top 5 reasons the ceasefire never truly took effect, as told by those on the ground.

1. Continued Russian Shelling During the Ceasefire Period

According to multiple frontline Ukrainian units, Russian forces maintained artillery and drone attacks throughout the declared ceasefire. Soldiers reported mortar fire as recently as six hours into the supposed truce, directly contradicting Kremlin statements.

2. Tactical Use of the Ceasefire as Cover

Ukrainian military intelligence suggests Russia used the ceasefire announcement to reposition troops and supplies under the guise of a truce. This aligns with past behavior where Russia declared ceasefires to regroup or stage future offensives.

3. Lack of Verification Mechanisms

There was no international monitoring or verification of the ceasefire’s implementation. With no neutral observers in place, accountability was minimal, allowing violations to go unreported or dismissed by Russian state media.

4. Disinformation and Media Control

The Kremlin widely publicized the ceasefire through state-controlled channels, presenting an image of humanitarian concern. In contrast, Ukrainian sources and independent media consistently reported that no real pause in hostilities occurred, further fueling distrust.

5. Local Commanders Ignoring Moscow’s Orders

Some analysts believe that Russian field commanders may have disregarded the central ceasefire directive, acting independently or interpreting the order loosely. This decentralization complicates ceasefire enforcement in active war zones like Eastern Ukraine.

Conclusion

While Moscow framed the 72-hour ceasefire as a gesture of goodwill, firsthand accounts from Ukrainian soldiers suggest it was anything but. Instead of peace, they faced continued attacks, strategic manipulation, and disinformation. As trust in Russian promises erodes further, the likelihood of meaningful negotiations dwindles. For now, the situation on the ground remains volatile and uncertain.

Want more frontline insights? Read our latest piece: Why Ukraine No Longer Trusts Russian Ceasefire Promises.

External Source: Reuters – Ukraine Says Russia Violated Ceasefire