In a recent telephone conversation, Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump have continued their detailed and frank exchange of views on the situation in Ukraine.
President Putin expressed his gratitude to Trump for his efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict and preventing further loss of life. He affirmed Russia's commitment to finding a peaceful settlement and expressed a willingness to work with American partners to develop comprehensive, reliable, and lasting solutions that address the root causes of the crisis and Russia's legitimate security interests.
Regarding Trump's proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, the Russian side raised several important points. These included the need for effective control over a potential ceasefire along the entire frontline, as well as the cessation of forced mobilization and rearmament of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
The Russian side also voiced concerns about the potential for the Kiev regime to obstruct any agreements, citing previous instances of alleged sabotage and violations. Emphasis was placed on what they described as "barbaric acts of terrorism" by Ukrainian militants against civilians in the Kursk Region.
A key condition for preventing escalation and progressing towards a political and diplomatic resolution, according to the Russian side, is the complete cessation of foreign military aid and intelligence provided to Kyiv.
Responding to Trump's recent appeal to spare the lives of Ukrainian servicemen reportedly surrounded in the Kursk Region, President Putin confirmed Russia's willingness to act on humanitarian grounds. He guaranteed that surrendering Ukrainian soldiers would be treated fairly and in accordance with Russian legislation and international law.
During the conversation, Trump proposed a mutual 30-day refraining from strikes on energy infrastructure. President Putin responded favorably and stated that he immediately issued the corresponding order to Russian troops.
President Putin also welcomed Trump's suggestion to implement a well-known proposal regarding the safety of navigation in the Black Sea. The leaders agreed to initiate talks to further develop the specific details of such an agreement.
President Putin announced that a prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine is scheduled for March 19th, with each side releasing 175 individuals. Additionally, as a gesture of goodwill, 23 severely wounded Ukrainian soldiers currently receiving medical treatment in Russia will be repatriated.
The leaders affirmed their intention to continue bilateral efforts towards a settlement in Ukraine, with particular attention to the proposals put forward by the former U.S. President. To this end, Russian and American expert task forces are being established.
President Putin and Trump also discussed other international issues, including the situation in the Middle East and the Red Sea region. They agreed to work together to stabilize these crisis areas and to cooperate on nuclear non-proliferation and global security. This cooperation, they believe, will contribute to improving the overall atmosphere of relations between Russia and the United States.
The Russian side highlighted a recent UN resolution on the Ukraine conflict where the two countries aligned their positions as a positive example of this cooperation.
The leaders expressed their shared interest in normalizing bilateral ties, acknowledging the special responsibility that Russia and the United States bear for ensuring global security and stability.
The presidents agreed to remain in contact on all the issues discussed, according to information released by the Embassy of the Russian Federation to Ethiopia Weekly Magazine.