Zelenskyy and Putin have agreed to a limited ceasefire, but implementation is work in progress

| Published March 21, 2025

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukraine and Russia agreed in principle to a limited ceasefire after President Donald Trump spoke with the countries’ leaders this week, though it remains to be seen when it might take effect and what possible targets would be off limits to attack.

In a significant development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed in principle to a limited ceasefire, following discussions mediated by U.S. President Donald Trump. This tentative agreement aims to protect critical energy and civilian infrastructure amidst the ongoing conflict.

Despite this accord, the situation on the ground remains volatile. Russian drone strikes recently targeted the Ukrainian port city of Odesa, injuring three individuals and causing substantial fires. These attacks occurred despite Russia’s commitment to halt strikes on energy facilities, highlighting the challenges in implementing even a limited truce.

The ceasefire discussions have also been complicated by differing interpretations and conditions. President Putin has stipulated that any long-term agreement would require a cessation of foreign military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine. However, President Zelenskyy has firmly rejected this condition, emphasizing that halting such support would jeopardize Ukrainian lives and compromise the nation’s defense capabilities.

The international community remains cautiously optimistic yet skeptical about the ceasefire’s prospects. Past attempts at establishing truces have often been short-lived, and the ongoing hostilities underscore the fragility of the current situation. As both sides navigate these complex negotiations, the hope for a sustainable peace remains uncertain.

SOURCES: AP NEWS – Zelenskyy and Putin have agreed to a limited ceasefire, but implementation is work in progress

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