In the northern Ukrainian village of Lukashivka, a group of residents congregated near the remains of a damaged church to celebrate Easter, amid skepticism over a potential ceasefire with Russia. Ukrainian officials have expressed doubts regarding the ceasefire proposed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing that any pause in hostilities must be genuine before Ukrainian forces respond in kind. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy pointed out on Saturday night that Russia continued its strikes, albeit with less intensity.
“Christ is risen!” echoed through the air as parishioners of the Ascension Church, which was briefly occupied by Russian forces in 2022, made their way to a small wooden structure that now serves as their place of worship. They arrived carrying baskets and Easter cakes, ready for blessings. Against the dawn light, they quietly gathered in the coolness of spring with the church’s roofless frame looming behind them. Its walls still bore the scars of past attacks.
Serhii Zezul, the church’s priest, moved among the congregation, proclaiming “Christ is risen!” while sprinkling holy water over the offerings. His words were almost suppressed by the noise of a nearby generator. The original church, a landmark of 20th-century architecture, requires extensive funds for restoration—money that remains elusive as the conflict continues. According to Ruslan Khalikov, head of the “Religion on Fire” project, Russia’s invasion has damaged or destroyed approximately 530 churches in Ukraine since February 2022, resulting in the death of at least 25 clergy members.
“In a community, a destroyed church is akin to a shattered soul,” remarked Zezul. “When such structures fall, they weaken the unity and the core that binds people together.”
Despite their fears, a larger crowd than usual gathered in the church’s courtyard on Easter Sunday. Many journeyed from other cities to Lukashivka to commemorate the holiday, concerned about potential Russian strikes on large urban gatherings after recent missile attacks claimed civilian lives. Among them was 44-year-old Olha Rudeno, who had attended church services in Chernihiv for over two decades. “The war has made it emotionally taxing for me to be in crowded areas,” she explained.
Rudeno expressed skepticism about the possibility of a ceasefire with Russia. “Belief in a ceasefire is self-deception. It’s uncertain how long it might take before I believe such a peace is viable,” she stated.
Uncertainty around a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine persists, as diplomatic efforts led by the United States have not achieved a breakthrough. While Ukraine backs a proposal endorsed by former President Donald Trump, Russia’s response ties any agreement to halting Kyiv’s troop movements and stopping Western arms supplies—conditions Ukraine has rejected for fear of allowing Russia to recuperate and intensify its actions.
“In my view, a ceasefire is unlikely,” Zezul commented. “And even if one emerged, there’s no clarity on its scope—meanwhile, our soldiers continue to fight on the front line.” Nonetheless, Zezul sees these Easter observances, held amidst the ruins, as reflecting faith’s endurance in the face of adversity. “Even against all odds, people gather and believe in a brighter future. We are rebuilding and standing firm. Truth ultimately prevails over evil. People hold on to that hope.”
In his Easter address, President Zelenskyy reflected on enduring hardship and the unwavering grip of faith. “We’ve all experienced moments where we ask, ‘God, why is this happening?’” He also referred to recent attacks across various Ukrainian cities, highlighting how such events prompt introspection when answers prove elusive. “An invisible yet powerful force within us keeps us from surrendering. It guides us towards the light, ensuring we don’t lose our way.”