In a Paris press conference, President Zelensky lauded Europe’s disciplined approach, subtly contrasting it with past US administrations. He urged continued strong US support against Russia’s shifting ceasefire conditions, emphasizing the need for unwavering pressure on the Kremlin. Zelensky also predicted Putin’s demise, expressing confidence in Ukraine’s future. He further downplayed the input of US envoy Steve Witkoff, suggesting his expertise was not relevant to the Ukrainian conflict. The comments came ahead of a crucial coalition summit in Paris.
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On March 27th, a Russian attack on Kherson’s energy infrastructure resulted in two deaths and at least five injuries, directly violating a recently agreed-upon partial ceasefire on such strikes. This ceasefire, facilitated by the U.S., followed prior discussions in Riyadh and was intended to limit attacks on energy facilities by both sides. Despite Russia claiming adherence since March 18th, the Kherson attack prompted Ukrainian President Zelensky to call for a U.S. response and to provide evidence of the violation to the U.S. Defense Minister. The attack underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining any truce amidst the broader conflict.
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Amid speculation regarding Vladimir Putin’s declining health, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy declared Putin’s imminent demise. Following a fragile Black Sea ceasefire, Zelenskyy and French President Macron urged continued US support against Russian manipulation and stressed the need for EU unity. Zelenskyy highlighted Putin’s efforts to fracture the EU, particularly through Hungary. An upcoming EU summit will determine support strategies for Ukraine, potentially including peacekeeping deployments, while further military aid for Ukraine was also announced.
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Following a large-scale Russian drone attack on Ukraine, President Zelenskyy accused Russia of insincerity regarding peace negotiations. Despite parallel US-brokered talks resulting in tentative agreements on maritime and energy ceasefires, the attack underscored a lack of trust between the parties. While Russia claimed Ukraine targeted its energy infrastructure, Zelenskyy is heading to Paris to discuss a post-conflict security force with EU and NATO leaders. This force, potentially comprising thousands of troops and air and maritime patrols, aims to deter future Russian aggression, though its details remain sparse. The ongoing negotiations have yielded modest results, raising questions about the feasibility of a comprehensive ceasefire.
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President Zelensky alleges Russian influence within President Trump’s White House, claiming Russia spread disinformation to portray Ukraine as unwilling to end the war. Amidst ongoing U.S.-mediated peace talks in Saudi Arabia involving separate Ukrainian and Russian delegations, Zelensky expressed concerns about the U.S. approach, suggesting a potential bias towards Russia. While a limited ceasefire on energy infrastructure has been agreed upon by Russia, a broader ceasefire remains elusive. Trump’s push for a 30-day ceasefire, however, polls favorably in Ukraine.
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A key agreement reached involves a mutual commitment by Ukraine and Russia to refrain from targeting each other’s energy infrastructure. This understanding extends to ensuring safe navigation in the Black Sea for civilian vessels, prohibiting strikes on port infrastructure. While details remain to be clarified, the agreement represents an initial step toward de-escalation. Further, the US and Ukraine have also separately agreed to work toward safe Black Sea navigation and prisoner exchanges.
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Zelenskyy’s assertion that Russia successfully influenced some members of Trump’s team is a statement laden with implications, suggesting a level of penetration into the highest echelons of American power that is deeply unsettling. The scale of this influence, however, remains a subject of debate. While Zelenskyy’s phrasing might appear diplomatic, the underlying sentiment seems to point towards a much broader problem than a few isolated cases.
The sheer audacity of the alleged influence campaign is striking. Imagine, just thirty years ago, the idea of a US president echoing Russian propaganda would have seemed almost unthinkable. Yet, the reality of the situation appears to have surpassed even the most cynical predictions.… Continue reading
President Zelenskyy’s White House meeting with Trump and Senator Vance resulted in a contentious exchange, with Trump criticizing Ukraine’s perceived lack of gratitude and urging a ceasefire. Zelenskyy defended Ukraine’s actions and challenged Trump’s characterization of diplomacy with Russia. Following this meeting, the U.S. curtailed aid to Ukraine until a 30-day ceasefire was agreed upon. Despite the setbacks, Zelenskyy has chosen to avoid publicly criticizing Trump, while Russia’s attacks on Ukraine continue.
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President Zelenskyy alleges that Russia successfully influenced some White House personnel by disseminating misinformation, including a fabricated claim about encircled Ukrainian soldiers. This disinformation, amplified by President Trump despite contradicting US intelligence, led some American officials to believe Russia’s narrative. Zelenskyy suggests this influence aimed to portray Ukraine as unwilling to end the conflict. Further evidence of this influence is seen in Steve Witkoff’s comments, which falsely legitimized the annexation of Ukrainian territories through purported referendums, prompting criticism and calls for his dismissal.
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Despite President Trump’s peace efforts, including calls with Putin and Zelensky, both Russia and Ukraine continue to conduct airstrikes, frustrating the former president. While the Kremlin claimed a 30-day pause on attacks against Ukrainian energy infrastructure, Kyiv alleges continued attacks on civilian targets, and both sides accuse each other of further aggression. Although Trump remains committed to a ceasefire, impatience is reportedly growing within his circle, contrasting with a calmer, more patient approach from White House officials. Ongoing attacks continue to inflict casualties and damage critical infrastructure on both sides.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood