Russia wants a ceasefire in Ukraine from noon tomorrow and 36 hours ahead, the Reuters news agency reports, citing the Kremlin. The order is to come from President Vladimir Putin and concern Russian forces, according to AP.
It is the first time since the war began that the Russian side has called for a ceasefire. The announcement comes less than a day before the start of the Orthodox Christmas – which concerns many believing Russians.
The Russian head of the Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, called for the truce earlier on Thursday.
Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas Day on 7 January because they use the Julian calendar, which is thirteen days behind the Gregorian.
