Zelensky supports US-Russia ceasefire, seeks clarity on peace talks
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Speaking during an online briefing, the Ukrainian President called for the need to clarify what was discussed in the US-Russia negotiations.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attends a briefing in Kiev, Ukraine, Wednesday, March 12, 2025. (AP)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has voiced support for a US-brokered ceasefire agreement that pauses strikes on Russian energy infrastructure for 30 days but has also called for direct talks with US President Donald Trump to understand the specifics of negotiations between Washington and Moscow.
The White House confirmed the agreement earlier today following a phone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, in which both leaders committed to immediate discussions on a broader peace settlement.
Zelensky, speaking during an online briefing, discussed the need for clarity on what was exchanged in the US-Russia negotiations.
"I think it will be right that we will have a conversation with President Trump and we will know in detail what the Russians offered the Americans or what the Americans offered the Russians," Zelensky told reporters.
A fragile truce and ongoing negotiations
The temporary ceasefire is seen as a first step toward a broader peace initiative, though Russia has stopped short of committing to a wider cessation of hostilities. The Kremlin has insisted that a halt to foreign military aid to Kiev must be part of any long-term resolution.
Meanwhile, the White House has outlined additional plans, including negotiations on a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea alongside talks for a permanent peace framework.
"The leaders agreed that the movement to peace will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire, as well as technical negotiations on the implementation of a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, full ceasefire, and permanent peace," the White House statement read.
Read more: Putin seeks halt to Ukraine arms as condition for ceasefire: Bloomberg
Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and potential concessions
Speculation continues regarding whether Ukraine will be pressured into making territorial concessions as part of a final settlement. The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant has been mentioned as a key area under discussion, fueling concerns in Kiev that Trump may be willing to grant Russia control over strategic assets.
Although Ukraine has endorsed the ceasefire, Zelensky's request for direct talks with Trump suggests that Kiev remains wary about the agreement's long-term implications.
While the White House has not yet confirmed whether Trump will engage in direct talks with Zelensky, officials have reiterated that discussions between Washington and Moscow will continue.
