Valery Gerasimov is a Russian General of the Army and the long-serving Chief of the General Staff and First Deputy Minister of Defense. He has helped shape Russia’s military doctrine and frontline operations since 2012, including responses to Ukraine War. Latest news: Russia’s war posture and operational responses under his command continue to be scrutinized as Kyiv reports gains and Moscow emphasizes new weapons and strategic moves.
Russian forces have made limited progress in establishing a buffer zone in Ukraine's Sumy region, with Ukraine asserting it is holding back Russian advances. Russia claims control of a village, but Ukraine reports disrupted Russian plans and ongoing Ukrainian counteractions. The situation remains tense as both sides claim gains.
Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a 32-hour ceasefire from 4 p.m. on April 11 to midnight on April 12 for Orthodox Easter. Both sides have confirmed compliance despite ongoing tensions and recent attacks. The truce coincides with prisoner exchanges and diplomatic talks, though broader peace negotiations remain stalled amid continued conflict.
Ukrainian forces have regained territory in recent weeks, with reports of advances in eastern Ukraine. Russia continues to control significant parts of Donbas and other regions, while fighting remains intense along the front line. Both sides are actively shifting their military operations.