Daniel Hawkins, a journalist based in Moscow, stated that the ceasefire’s announcement came as a surprise to most Russians than the fact it subsequently broke down. He stated that the move shocked many Russians, albeit in a positive way. “For Moscow, this was a gesture that was full of symbolism and is designed to send a message to the domestic audience that Moscow is the one seeking peace and Kyiv is the one rejecting this alleged olive branch,” he added.
