Putin agrees to limited ceasefire on Ukraine’s energy grid following talks with Trump

Department of Research, Studies and International News 19-03-2025

In a significant diplomatic development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to a temporary halt in attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure following a high-stakes conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump. However, despite Trump’s proposal for a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire, Putin refrained from committing to a full cessation of hostilities, citing conditions that Western nations must meet before considering broader peace talks.

Ceasefire on Energy Infrastructure but No Full Truce

The Kremlin confirmed that Putin ordered a temporary suspension of strikes targeting Ukraine’s power and energy facilities. This agreement marks a pivotal, though limited, de-escalation in the ongoing war. Nevertheless, within hours of the announcement, air raid sirens blared in Kyiv, and reports surfaced of fresh explosions from Ukrainian air defenses intercepting Russian drones near the capital.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acknowledged the development but remained cautious, stating that while Ukraine was open to discussions regarding mutual de-escalation, further clarification was needed from Washington before any commitments could be made. “We need details on what was agreed upon,” Zelenskyy remarked, emphasizing that Ukraine would formally respond only after further discussions with the U.S.

Trump’s Perspective and Efforts

President Trump took to his Truth Social platform to describe the conversation with Putin as “very good and productive,” expressing optimism about an eventual end to the war. “We agreed to an immediate ceasefire on all energy and infrastructure, with the goal of working toward a complete ceasefire and, ultimately, an end to this war,” Trump wrote.

During a subsequent interview, Trump elaborated on the challenges of negotiating a full ceasefire, citing Russia’s strategic advantages on the battlefield. He noted that Russian forces had encircled approximately 2,500 Ukrainian troops, complicating the prospects for an immediate end to hostilities.

When asked about reports that Putin had demanded an immediate suspension of Western military aid to Ukraine as a condition for broader peace talks, Trump denied that the topic was discussed. “We talked about a lot of things, but aid was never part of the conversation,” he asserted.

Conditions Set by Russia

The Kremlin issued a detailed statement outlining the prerequisites for a more comprehensive ceasefire. Among the conditions were the cessation of Western military and intelligence support for Ukraine, as well as a halt to Ukraine’s military mobilization. Putin also reiterated his stance that any long-term resolution must address Russia’s “legitimate security concerns.”

These demands reflect Moscow’s broader strategic objectives, including ensuring that Ukraine remains outside NATO, the demilitarization of Ukraine, and recognition of Russian sovereignty over four annexed Ukrainian regions. Western officials, however, view these conditions as an attempt to force Ukraine into an unfavorable settlement.

Western Reactions and Concerns

The partial ceasefire has prompted mixed reactions from Western leaders. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, speaking alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, welcomed the halt in attacks on energy infrastructure as “a good start” but stressed that a complete ceasefire was necessary for lasting peace. “There cannot be an agreement without Ukraine’s full involvement,” Scholz emphasized.

Meanwhile, Downing Street issued a statement acknowledging Trump’s diplomatic efforts while underscoring that any negotiations must lead to “a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.” The UK and EU remain committed to delivering additional military aid to Kyiv, viewing any suspension of support as a strategic victory for Russia.

Reports have also surfaced that Washington is considering recognizing Crimea as Russian territory as part of a potential peace agreement. The proposal, if confirmed, could mark a significant shift in U.S. policy and has already sparked debates within diplomatic circles about the long-term implications of such a move.

In Russia, officials close to the Kremlin expressed satisfaction with the outcome of Putin’s call with Trump. Senior Russian aide Kirill Dmitriev described the conversation as a “perfect call,” reinforcing the Kremlin’s narrative that diplomatic channels remain open and productive.

As negotiations continue, the focus will be on whether the partial ceasefire holds and if it can serve as a stepping stone toward broader peace talks. With Western leaders wary of any deal that undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty, and Moscow steadfast in its demands, the path to a lasting resolution remains uncertain.

The coming weeks will determine whether this temporary halt in attacks marks the beginning of a serious diplomatic breakthrough or simply another tactical maneuver in a prolonged conflict.