Days after Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed for a 30-day ceasefire proposal, US President Donald Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday regarding the ceasefire deal. Following the call, Putin agreed to suspend strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure for 30 days.

In a statement, the White House said, “The leaders agreed that the path to peace will commence with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire, alongside technical negotiations for implementing a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, leading to a full ceasefire and lasting peace.” The negotiations are set to commence in the Middle East.

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Putin reportedly emphasised that any lasting resolution to the war would require a comprehensive approach that addresses Russia’s security concerns. While Ukraine had already agreed to the US-proposed ceasefire last week, Putin raised questions about the mechanisms to monitor the truce and prevent Kyiv from using the pause to reinforce its military strength.

The Kremlin stated that Putin underscored the necessity of ceasing all foreign military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine to ensure the ceasefire holds.

“The leaders agreed that the movement to peace will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire, as well as technical negotiations on implementation,” the White House said.

Here are some key details from the phone call:

  • Putin “responded constructively” to a proposal ensuring safe passage for vessels in the Black Sea and agreed to begin negotiations to finalize the specific terms of the agreement
  • He informed Trump that Russia and Ukraine will exchange 175 prisoners on March 19, Kremlin said
  • Additionally, Russia will release 23 severely wounded Ukrainian servicemen currently receiving treatment in Russian medical facilities
  • Both countries will form expert groups to continue negotiations
  • Putin emphasised that a key condition for preventing further escalation and pursuing a diplomatic resolution is the complete cessation of foreign military aid and intelligence support to Kyiv, Kremlin said