Putin rejects full truce but halts attacks on Ukraine’s energy infra

International

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call on Tuesday, March 18, discussing a potential ceasefire in Ukraine.

While Putin rejected a full truce, he agreed to halt attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

In a report by BBC News, the call followed a U.S.-led negotiation in Jeddah last week, where officials brokered a 30-day ceasefire plan with Ukraine.

Putin stated that a comprehensive ceasefire would only be possible if Ukraine’s allies cease military aid and intelligence sharing conditions previously rejected by European nations.

Following the conversation, Trump described the discussion as “very good and productive.”

In a statement on Truth Social, Trump said both sides are working toward a “Complete Ceasefire and, ultimately, an END to this very horrible War.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the partial agreement but called for further clarifications.

Shortly after the call, reports emerged of new Russian drone strikes on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure, raising doubts about Putin’s commitment to peace efforts.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also spoke with Zelensky after the Trump-Putin call, reaffirming the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine.(Justin Aquino, BiPSU Comm Intern)