In a surprising twist that could pave the way for peace, U.S. President Trump and Russian President Putin agreed during a lengthy phone call on Mar. 18 to pursue a limited ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict. The call focused on protecting energy and critical infrastructure, signaling a meaningful first step towards lasting peace. 🤝
The White House described this initiative as the beginning of a movement to peace, with hopes of eventually extending the limited ceasefire into a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea and moving toward a complete, enduring end to the conflict. Both leaders stressed that the heavy costs of war would be better spent on the needs of their people.
Interestingly, negotiations are set to commence immediately in the Middle East as well, although it remains uncertain whether Ukraine fully backs the phased ceasefire plan. Ukrainian officials have earlier proposed measures including a Black Sea ceasefire, halting long-range missile strikes, and prisoner exchanges.
In a bid to build trust, Putin mentioned that Russia and Ukraine would exchange 175 prisoners of conflict on Wednesday, and that 23 severely wounded Ukrainian soldiers would be handed over, according to the Kremlin. He also urged Trump to end foreign military and intelligence support to Ukraine, while Trump noted that a 30-day ceasefire proposal is being pushed as a vital step forward—even as skepticism remains among Ukrainian leaders.
This development marks a notable shift in U.S.-Russia relations, as efforts to end the conflict take center stage despite potential strains with longstanding allies. Stay tuned as these discussions continue to shape the dynamic path to peace. 🌍
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Trump, Putin agree to pursue a limited ceasefire in Ukraine conflict
cgtn.com
