Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko gave a corresponding order to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the Ministry of Defense on March 30.
"On my instructions, our delegation in Minsk proposed to announce a cease-fire ahead of Easter. Unfortunately, we do not have much optimism that another party will honor the agreements reached, but the life and health of every Ukrainian soldier are of the greatest value," the head of state said.
Read alsoUkrainian army ready for full ceasefire in Donbas from Apr 1Poroshenko stressed that it was the Ukrainian side which proposed full ceasefire from April 1.
The president noted that it was necessary to act decisively to ensure a ceasefire and withdrawal of heavy equipment and artillery. This is the key point of the Minsk agreements and the decision of the National Security and Defense Council.
"We will see how these agreements will be implemented from April 1," Poroshenko said.
Read alsoMinsk talks: April 1 set as new deadline for Donbas truce pending EasterOn March 30, Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak stated that Ukraine was ready to start a ceasefire in Donbas; however, it would defend its positions in the event of a threat to the life of the Ukrainian troops.
