Putin’s drone attacks mock Trump’s attempt for Ukraine peace deal

WorldPolitics
20 Mar 2025 • 4:13 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Hours after Vladimir Putin agreed with Donald Trump to halt attacks on Ukraine's energy grid, Russia launched a mass drone attack targeting the grid and civilian infrastructure.
  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the attacks demonstrated Putin's lack of commitment to the agreement, while European leaders expressed skepticism about Putin's intentions.
  • Despite the attacks, Trump and Zelensky held a phone call, which both sides described as positive, and affirmed their commitment to working towards peace. A partial ceasefire focusing on civilian infrastructure was discussed.
  • A prisoner exchange involving 175 prisoners from each side, brokered by the UAE, took place amidst the ongoing conflict.
  • While the US expressed optimism about Putin's good faith, significant obstacles remain, including Russia's demand for a halt to Western military aid to Ukraine in exchange for a full ceasefire. Further US-Russia talks are scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia.

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