The temporary truce and cessation of attacks on Ukraine's energy system and infrastructure, agreed to by Trump and Putin, did not last more than a few hours. Overnight, 150 drone strikes were recorded in Ukraine, targeting energy, transportation infrastructure, and even hospitals. Russia's ceasefire violations call into question its willingness to make a real peace.
Violations of the Temporary Ceasefire
Despite the agreement on a 30-day ceasefire, Russian troops continue to attack Ukrainian infrastructure. Immediately after the phone call between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, Russia launched a massive drone attack on Ukraine.
On March 18, Russian troops attacked critical infrastructure in the city of Sloviansk, including one of the power substations, causing a partial blackout. On the night of 19 March, Russia attacked Kyiv with 45 drones. Several districts of the Sumy region regions were hit by Russian strikes, resulting in the destruction of infrastructure and residential buildings. In total, Ukraine was attacked with two Iskander-M ballistic missiles, four S-300 anti-aircraft guided missiles and 145 attack drones. Kharkiv, Dnipro and Odesa were the hardest hit.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that despite the announced ceasefire, Russia is continuing its aggressive actions, which calls into question the effectiveness of the agreements reached.
Putin's demands
In a conversation with Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected an unconditional ceasefire and demanded an end to military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, recognition recognition of the occupied territories as part of Russia, and an end to the mobilization and demilitarization of Ukraine. Zelenskiy categorically rejected these conditions.
Zelenskyy plans meeting with Trump
During an official visit to Finland, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also reported, that he will have a telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump on March 19 to discuss further steps after the partial ceasefire agreed by Russia. Zelensky stressed that Ukraine does not recognize the territories occupied by Russia, including Crimea.
Zelensky emphasized the danger posed by a possible withdrawal of U.S. support for Ukraine. He stressed that it would be very dangerous for Ukraine if the United States were not a strategic partner and called for continued cooperation to achieve sustainable peace.
Rutte expresses confidence in Trump
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has expressed confidence in US President Donald Trump's ability to achieve a peaceful settlement in Ukraine. He noted that Trump has been familiar with Putin's tactics since his first term and knows how to negotiate with him. Rutte also praised the ceasefire proposal agreed between the US and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia.
Macron hints at Western military presence in Ukraine
French President Emmanuel Macron has saidthat Western troops could be sent to Ukraine without Russia's consent. This statement provoked mixed reactions among NATO allies, as the bloc's official position has so far ruled out direct military intervention.
A new phase in peace talks
Trump's special envoy announced a new round of talks in Jeddah on March 23. This may be an attempt to create an alternative diplomatic format that does not involve traditional European mediators. However, without guarantees of a ceasefire, these talks may remain another phase of stalling.
Author: Danylo Pievchev