President Putin voiced support for a 30-day Ukraine ceasefire proposed by the U.S., but emphasized the need for further negotiations regarding specific terms. He stressed that any truce must lead to lasting peace and address the conflict’s root causes, while also raising concerns about potential Ukrainian rearmament during a cessation of hostilities. President Trump expressed cautious optimism, noting the need for Russia’s genuine commitment, while President Zelenskyy expressed skepticism, suggesting that Russia aims to delay any resolution. The diplomatic efforts come amid a renewed Russian offensive in the Kursk region and a shift in U.S.-Russia relations under the Trump administration.
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Following a U.S. proposal, Russia expressed conditional support for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, contingent upon Kyiv halting troop mobilization, training, and military aid receipt. Putin linked the truce to addressing the conflict’s root causes, implying maximalist demands including territorial concessions and Ukrainian neutrality. While Kyiv initially agreed to the ceasefire, Zelensky later accused Russia of delaying peace. Putin’s acceptance hinges on further negotiations, reportedly including discussions with former U.S. President Trump.
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Portugal’s planned F-35 fighter jet procurement is now unlikely due to shifting U.S. policy toward NATO and concerns over potential limitations on the aircraft’s capabilities. Defense Minister Nuno Melo cites uncertainty surrounding the current U.S. administration’s stance on NATO and its defense commitments as a major factor in this decision. This reevaluation reflects a broader trend among European nations reconsidering their defense strategies in light of changing geopolitical dynamics. Alternative fighter jet options, including European-made aircraft, are now under consideration for replacing Portugal’s aging F-16 fleet.
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Mark Carney, set to be sworn in as Canada’s 24th prime minister on Friday, will embark on his first international trip next week, visiting London and Paris. This trip, confirmed by four unnamed sources, includes planned meetings with key British officials, including Prime Minister Starmer and Foreign Secretary Lammy. The visit comes amidst rising trade tensions with the U.S., prompting Canada to prioritize diversifying its trade relationships. Mr. Carney’s trip to London is particularly significant given his prior role as Governor of the Bank of England.
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Overnight on March 13, a large-scale Ukrainian drone attack targeted six Russian regions, resulting in reported fires at an infrastructure site in Voronezh and an industrial plant in Kaluga oblasts. Russian authorities claimed to have intercepted 77 drones, while regional governors reported minor damage and one minor injury. The attacks, following a similarly large-scale operation two days prior, aimed to disrupt Russia’s war effort by targeting military and industrial infrastructure. The Ukrainian military has yet to officially comment on the incident.
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To bolster its flagging offensive in Ukraine, Russia has deployed assault units formed from personnel of its Strategic Rocket Forces (RVSN). These units, initially observed near the Russian-Donetsk Oblast border in November 2024, are now engaged in combat around Toretsk. The redeployment includes personnel from the RVSN’s 12th Main Directorate, responsible for nuclear weapons storage, and elements of the 132nd Motorized Rifle Brigade. Formation of these RVSN-based infantry units began as early as mid-2024, highlighting Russia’s increasing reliance on unconventional troop sources to sustain its war effort.
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Following a Jeddah summit where a 30-day ceasefire was proposed, Ukraine expressed its commitment to peace and a swift resolution, contingent upon Russian reciprocation. However, Russia, prioritizing a long-term settlement, has yet to offer a substantive response, leading Ukraine to accuse Russia of deliberately prolonging the conflict. The United States is actively involved, offering to oversee a truce, and engaging in diplomatic efforts with Russia to secure a ceasefire. Despite these efforts, Russia’s recent battlefield gains and perceived strategic advantage suggest a low probability of immediate agreement.
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Following Russia’s nuclear threats and deployment of atomic weapons to Belarus, Polish President Andrzej Duda urged the U.S. to deploy nuclear weapons in Poland, citing NATO’s eastward expansion in 1999. Duda suggested that relocating U.S. warheads from Western Europe to Poland would enhance regional security and counter Russia’s actions. He also proposed reviving a nuclear-sharing program and supported France’s offer of an extended nuclear umbrella, while rejecting the idea of Poland developing its own nuclear arsenal. This proposal, while potentially provocative to Moscow, reflects growing NATO concern over Russia’s nuclear posture.
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In response to the EU’s €26 billion in retaliatory tariffs against new U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer declared the EU’s trade policies to be unrealistic. Greer stated that the EU’s actions contradict its professed desire for collaboration on global metal overcapacity. He further asserted that the EU’s tariffs disregard U.S. national security interests and demonstrate a disconnect from global realities. This statement marks a rare public comment from Greer since his recent appointment.
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John Q. Hosedrinker