Following a Trump-Putin call, a purported “movement to peace” was announced, focusing on an energy and infrastructure ceasefire. However, Russia’s immediate resumption of attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, as evidenced by Zelenskyy’s report of drone strikes, contradicted this claim. Putin’s demands for an end to Western aid to Ukraine further complicated the situation, fueling European anxieties about the viability of any peace deal. This unease was evident at a major security conference in India, where the war’s impact and the role of potential intermediaries were heavily discussed.
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Following a tense Oval Office meeting on February 28th, Donald Trump asserted that he pressed Ukraine to take appropriate actions to facilitate a peace agreement, minimizing the impact of a prior arms supply pause. He claimed the pause did not negatively affect Ukrainian forces in Kursk Oblast and justified his actions by emphasizing the high human cost of the war. Trump further stated that his involvement stemmed from a humanitarian concern for the loss of life and that the Ukrainian president had shown disrespect. Zelenskyy, however, countered that Ukraine acted appropriately.
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In a recent address, President Zelensky announced the successful 3,000-kilometer test flight of a new Ukrainian long-range drone. This follows discussions regarding the domestically developed Long Neptune missile, also used to strike deep into Russian territory. The meeting highlighted the need for increased production of both drones and missiles, with plans to discuss this with international partners. Ukraine’s ongoing development of long-range weaponry includes missile-drone hybrids, reflecting a commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities. A goal of producing at least 30,000 long-range drones by 2025 has been set.
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In response to the ongoing war, President Zelensky signed a law enabling the deployment of Ukrainian Armed Forces abroad during martial law. This legislation, finalized after presidential amendments and parliamentary approval, facilitates enhanced defense cooperation with partner nations, primarily for training and equipment acquisition. Deployment decisions require presidential approval and parliamentary ratification, subject to detailed mission parameters. Crucially, the law explicitly excludes combat operations on Russian soil.
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President Zelenskyy and Canadian Prime Minister Carney held a productive conversation focusing on strengthening sanctions against Russia, particularly targeting its funding sources, to pressure Putin towards peace. The discussion also encompassed vital humanitarian aid, Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction, and economic support. Furthermore, bilateral cooperation was addressed, including potential joint military-industrial projects leveraging Ukraine’s wartime technological advancements. Both leaders affirmed their commitment to continued collaboration across various levels and formats. Canada reiterated its support for an immediate ceasefire and stronger sanctions enforcement.
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Despite initially supporting a US-proposed 30-day ceasefire, President Zelenskyy denounced continued Russian attacks across multiple Ukrainian cities, citing over 2,380 attacks this week alone. He emphasized the need for a “just and lasting peace” secured through sustained international pressure on Russia, including intensified sanctions. Zelenskyy’s statement follows discussions between US and Russian diplomats on ending the conflict and a call from President Putin for Ukrainian troops’ surrender in Kursk. This underscores the ongoing conflict and the challenges in achieving a peaceful resolution.
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President Zelenskyy announced the successful testing and deployment of Ukraine’s new “Long Neptune” long-range missile, boasting a 1,000-kilometer range. This extended-range modification of the domestically produced Neptune cruise missile, initially designed for naval targets, significantly enhances Ukraine’s defense capabilities. While official deployment numbers remain undisclosed, the missile may have been used in recent strikes, with unverified reports suggesting involvement in a March 14th attack on a Russian oil refinery. This development follows Ukraine’s progress on other missile programs, including the successful testing of its first ballistic missile.
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Zelenskyy declared the Kursk operation a success, significantly relieving pressure on Ukrainian forces in both Kharkiv and Pokrovsk. Despite a difficult situation, he praised the soldiers’ efforts in achieving this strategic objective. However, these claims contradict Trump’s assertion, based on purported communication with Putin, of a large-scale Ukrainian troop encirclement near Kursk. Ukraine’s General Staff firmly denies these Russian claims as disinformation.
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Following a U.S. proposal, Ukraine has accepted a 30-day interim ceasefire, creating a potential path to ending the war with Russia. President Zelenskyy expressed optimism, citing strengthened security understandings with European partners and the possibility of a U.S.-monitored truce along the extensive frontline. However, he urged continued pressure on Moscow, anticipating potential Russian delays. Resolving territorial disputes, particularly the recovery of occupied regions, remains a significant and complex challenge in achieving a lasting peace.
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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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John Q. Hosedrinker