Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced his support for a 30-day truce with Russia, emphasizing the importance of not targeting energy facilities but highlighted the need for further “details” from Washington. Zelensky made this statement during an online press conference following a phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump, where the truce proposal was discussed.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Zelensky expressed his willingness to back the truce proposals while stressing the necessity of understanding the specifics of what was proposed between the U.S. and Russia. He stated the importance of discussions with Trump to clarify these details further.

Zelensky also criticized Putin’s terms for the truce, arguing that they are designed to weaken Ukraine and demonstrate a lack of readiness to end the ongoing conflict. He confirmed ongoing military engagements, highlighting continued fighting by the Ukrainian army in the Kursk region of Russia.

Ukrainian forces have faced significant challenges in the Kursk region, retreating in recent days due to Russian counterattacks after initially occupying large areas following a surprise summer offensive in 2024.

Agencies reported the Kremlin’s support for the U.S.-led initiative for a mutual 30-day pause in attacks on energy infrastructure. Putin instructed the Russian military to adhere to this agreement but noted Kyiv’s negotiation difficulties as a potential barrier to its implementation.

Putin assured Trump of the safety and humane treatment of Ukrainian soldiers should they surrender in the Kursk region. In a related development, Putin announced a prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, set for March 19, involving 175 prisoners from each side. As a goodwill gesture, Moscow plans to return 23 seriously wounded Ukrainian soldiers to Kyiv.