In a significant development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has agreed to a partial ceasefire with Russia, focusing on the protection of his nation’s energy infrastructure. This agreement follows a series of diplomatic engagements, including a pivotal phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Diplomatic Efforts Lead to Ceasefire Agreement
On March 19, 2025, President Trump and President Zelensky engaged in a substantive phone call to discuss the prospects of a partial ceasefire in Ukraine. This conversation came on the heels of Trump’s discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which Putin agreed to a 30-day cessation of attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities.
During their call, Trump and Zelensky addressed the implementation of the ceasefire and the enhancement of Ukraine’s air defense systems. Zelensky expressed Ukraine’s readiness to halt strikes on Russian infrastructure and adhere to an unconditional ceasefire, aligning with the U.S. proposal. Both leaders described the conversation as “very good” and “positive,” indicating a mutual commitment to de-escalation.
Ceasefire Focuses on Energy Infrastructure
The partial ceasefire specifically targets the protection of energy infrastructure in both Ukraine and Russia. This focus aims to prevent further damage to critical facilities that have been under assault during the conflict. The agreement is viewed as a foundational step toward broader peace negotiations, with further discussions anticipated in Saudi Arabia in the coming days.
President Zelensky’s office released this photo of a destroyed power plant at an undisclosed location.
Challenges and Skepticism
Despite the agreement, challenges persist. Shortly after Putin’s promise to halt attacks on energy infrastructure, reports emerged of continued Russian strikes on Ukrainian facilities, casting doubt on the ceasefire’s viability. Both Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of violating the partial truce, underscoring the fragility of the agreement.
Additionally, President Trump suggested that the U.S. should take control of Ukraine’s power plants to ensure their security, proposing that American expertise and ownership could protect the infrastructure amid the ongoing conflict.
This proposal adds a complex layer to the negotiations, reflecting the intricate geopolitical considerations at play. I think that’s a pretty good idea. Temporarily put up big American Flags on the sides of the buildings, and the chances of them getting bombed by the Russians go way down. Is it an unconventional move? Hell yes, but Donald Trump is an unconventional president.
International Reactions
The international community has responded cautiously to the ceasefire agreement. European Council President Antonio Costa expressed encouragement regarding the talks between Trump and Zelensky, highlighting the importance of halting strikes on energy infrastructure as a crucial step toward ending the war. However, skepticism remains about the sincerity of the ceasefire and the overall peace talks.
In a significant development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has agreed to a partial ceasefire with Russia, focusing on the protection of his nation’s energy infrastructure. This agreement follows a series of diplomatic engagements, including a pivotal phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Diplomatic Efforts Lead to Ceasefire Agreement
On March 19, 2025, President Trump and President Zelensky engaged in a substantive phone call to discuss the prospects of a partial ceasefire in Ukraine. This conversation came on the heels of Trump’s discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which Putin agreed to a 30-day cessation of attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities.
During their call, Trump and Zelensky addressed the implementation of the ceasefire and the enhancement of Ukraine’s air defense systems. Zelensky expressed Ukraine’s readiness to halt strikes on Russian infrastructure and adhere to an unconditional ceasefire, aligning with the U.S. proposal. Both leaders described the conversation as “very good” and “positive,” indicating a mutual commitment to de-escalation.
Ceasefire Focuses on Energy Infrastructure
The partial ceasefire specifically targets the protection of energy infrastructure in both Ukraine and Russia. This focus aims to prevent further damage to critical facilities that have been under assault during the conflict. The agreement is viewed as a foundational step toward broader peace negotiations, with further discussions anticipated in Saudi Arabia in the coming days.
President Zelensky’s office released this photo of a destroyed power plant at an undisclosed location.
Challenges and Skepticism
Despite the agreement, challenges persist. Shortly after Putin’s promise to halt attacks on energy infrastructure, reports emerged of continued Russian strikes on Ukrainian facilities, casting doubt on the ceasefire’s viability. Both Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of violating the partial truce, underscoring the fragility of the agreement.
Additionally, President Trump suggested that the U.S. should take control of Ukraine’s power plants to ensure their security, proposing that American expertise and ownership could protect the infrastructure amid the ongoing conflict.
This proposal adds a complex layer to the negotiations, reflecting the intricate geopolitical considerations at play. I think that’s a pretty good idea. Temporarily put up big American Flags on the sides of the buildings, and the chances of them getting bombed by the Russians go way down. Is it an unconventional move? Hell yes, but Donald Trump is an unconventional president.
International Reactions
The international community has responded cautiously to the ceasefire agreement. European Council President Antonio Costa expressed encouragement regarding the talks between Trump and Zelensky, highlighting the importance of halting strikes on energy infrastructure as a crucial step toward ending the war. However, skepticism remains about the sincerity of the ceasefire and the overall peace talks.
In the United States, public opinion reflects a growing desire for increased support for Ukraine. A recent Gallup poll indicates that nearly 46% of Americans believe the U.S. isn’t providing sufficient support to Ukraine, marking a 16-point increase since December. This shift underscores the urgency felt by many Americans for the U.S. to bolster its aid and actively pursue a path to peace.
I can hear the grumbling out there already because I know many Americans also believe we’ve done enough for Ukraine since the war began, and we don’t even know where all the money has gone. It’s certainly a polarizing topic.
Looking Ahead
What’s that old saying about a journey of a thousand miles beginning with one step (or something like that)? This may be the initial step toward peace.
The partial ceasefire represents a tentative step toward de-escalation in the region. The upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia will be crucial in determining whether this initial agreement can serve as a foundation for a more comprehensive peace plan. The international community will be closely monitoring these developments, hopeful that sustained diplomatic efforts can bring an end to the ongoing conflict.
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** What do you think? Is Zelensky sincere about this? Will he let Trump take temporary custody of Ukrainian power plants in the hope of saving them from destruction? What would you do to end the war?
Sound off in the comments!
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Guy D. McCardle is a sixteen-year veteran of the United States Army and most recently served as a Medical Operations Officer during OIF I and OIF II. He holds a degree in Biology from Washington & Jefferson College and is a graduate of the US Army Academy of Health Sciences. Guy has been a contributing writer to Apple News, Business Insider, International Business Times, and
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