Putin Agrees to Limited Ceasefire Following Call with Trump
MOSCOW, Russia - 18 March 2025
In a significant development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to a 30-day halt on attacks targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure following a high-stakes phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday. However, Putin declined to commit to a broader ceasefire, dampening hopes for a swift end to the ongoing conflict.
During the extensive conversation, President Trump proposed a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire encompassing all military activities. While President Putin did not agree to this full cessation of hostilities, he consented to a limited ceasefire specifically focused on halting attacks against Ukraine's energy infrastructure. This agreement aims to alleviate the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the targeting of critical energy facilities.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed cautious optimism regarding the partial ceasefire. He acknowledged the potential relief it could bring to Ukrainian civilians but emphasized the need for a comprehensive and lasting peace agreement. Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine remains committed to defending its sovereignty and will continue to seek full restoration of its territorial integrity.
The international community has responded with a mix of hope and skepticism. European leaders have welcomed any steps toward de-escalation but stress the importance of a comprehensive ceasefire and meaningful peace negotiations. Analysts caution that while the limited ceasefire is a positive development, it may also provide Russia with an opportunity to regroup its forces, potentially prolonging the conflict.
The agreement to halt attacks on energy infrastructure is set to commence immediately and will be in effect for 30 days. Diplomatic efforts are expected to intensify during this period, with the international community urging both parties to build on this partial truce toward achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace in the region.
Image: Kremlin/Wikimedia Commons
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