Putin and Trump Discuss Ceasefire: Prisoner Exchange and Suspension of Attacks on Energy Infrastructure
Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump held a phone conversation during which they discussed a 30-day ceasefire, a prisoner exchange, and the cessation of attacks on energy facilities.
Photo: Trump White House Archived, PDM 1.0
Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump held a phone conversation in which they discussed ways to resolve the Ukrainian conflict in detail, the Kremlin reported.
The main topic was a potential 30-day ceasefire proposed by the American side, aimed at reducing combat activity and creating conditions for diplomatic dialogue.
Vladimir Putin noted that Russia is willing to consider the proposal, but it must include security guarantees for the country.
In response, Trump stated that Washington would push for a full de-escalation but would not stop supplying weapons to Ukraine.
A key point of discussion was the prisoner exchange. Putin confirmed that an exchange of "175 for 175" is scheduled for March 19, along with the transfer of 23 severely wounded Ukrainian soldiers. This step is expected to be a significant trust-building measure between the parties.
Special attention was given to the issue of energy infrastructure. Trump proposed a temporary halt to strikes on energy facilities to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe. Putin supported this initiative and has already ordered the Russian military accordingly.
The security of maritime navigation in the Black Sea was also discussed. Trump emphasized the need for a new agreement to ensure freedom of navigation. Putin agreed to further negotiations on this issue.
At the end of the conversation, both sides agreed to establish expert groups to work out the proposed initiatives in detail. Putin and Trump expressed their willingness for further contact to seek a peaceful resolution to the Ukrainian conflict.
Earlier, it was reported that Trump’s advisor Mike Waltz suggested that during peace negotiations, Ukraine might have to agree to territorial concessions to Russia.
It was also revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that he is ready to cease hostilities in Ukraine if conditions for a sustainable peace are met and is awaiting clarifications on key conflict issues.