Zelenskyy Endorses Limited Ceasefire with Russia, US Reports
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Synopsis
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has agreed to a limited ceasefire in the conflict with Russia, as discussed by US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The White House confirmed this development, which includes plans for technical teams to meet soon to negotiate a broader ceasefire.
Key Takeaways
- Zelenskyy agrees to a partial ceasefire in the war.
- Discussion facilitated by Trump and Putin.
- Focus on energy and infrastructure sectors.
- Meetings planned in Saudi Arabia for further negotiations.
- US to assist with Ukraine's energy infrastructure.
Washington, March 19 (NationPress) Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy has consented to a partial ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Russia, as conveyed by US President Donald Trump during discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to the White House's announcement on Wednesday.
Trump informed Zelenskyy over a phone conversation regarding his discussion with Putin that took place on Tuesday.
The two leaders "reached an agreement on a partial ceasefire concerning energy," stated Karoline Leavitt, the White House spokesperson, based on a summary of the call that will be released by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz.
"Technical teams will convene in Saudi Arabia shortly to deliberate on expanding the ceasefire to the Black Sea as a step towards achieving a comprehensive ceasefire," Leavitt further elaborated, adding, "They concurred that this could serve as an initial move toward the complete cessation of the conflict while ensuring security."
Previously, President Trump had suggested a 30-day ceasefire, which President Zelenskyy accepted, but they ultimately settled on a limited ceasefire that pertains solely to the energy and infrastructure sectors.
Leavitt characterized the Wednesday conversation between Trump and Zelenskyy as "fantastic."
"President Trump thoroughly updated President Zelensky on his dialogue with Putin and the critical issues at hand. They evaluated the situation in Kursk and agreed to maintain close information sharing between their defense teams as the battlefield circumstances evolved. President Zelensky requested additional air defense systems to safeguard his civilians, particularly Patriot missile systems. President Trump agreed to collaborate with him to identify available resources, especially within Europe," Leavitt stated.
She continued: "President Zelensky expressed appreciation for the President's leadership in this initiative and reiterated his openness to implementing a full ceasefire. President Trump also touched upon Ukraine's electrical supply and nuclear power facilities. He noted that the United States could significantly assist in operating those plants with its electricity and utility expertise. American ownership of these facilities would provide optimal protection for that infrastructure and bolster Ukrainian energy systems."
