By Guruji Sunil Chaudhary

March 20, 2025

Key Takeaways

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has agreed to a 30-day limited ceasefire with Russia after a call with former U.S. President Donald Trump.
• The ceasefire includes a halt to Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure but does not cover the entire frontline.
• Trump reportedly suggested U.S. control over Ukrainian nuclear power plants for security reasons, sparking controversy.
• Zelenskyy denies any pressure from Trump or Russian President Vladimir Putin to make concessions.
• Skepticism remains high, with reports indicating Russia violated the truce within hours of its announcement.
• Talks on a permanent ceasefire remain ongoing, but both sides continue to accuse each other of bad faith.

Background Context: The Road to a Ceasefire

The Russia-Ukraine war, now in its third year, has seen repeated failed ceasefires and continued destruction. In recent weeks, there has been renewed international pressure, particularly from Donald Trump, to broker an end to hostilities.

Trump, who has been vocal about his desire to negotiate peace in Ukraine, spoke separately with both Zelenskyy and Putin, urging them to agree to a temporary truce. Following the calls, Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine had agreed to a 30-day limited ceasefire, covering certain military actions. However, Kyiv has insisted that this is not a full-scale peace deal and that the war is far from over.

What the Ceasefire Covers

The ceasefire includes:

• A halt to Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, including refineries and power plants.
• A temporary suspension of large-scale offensives in certain contested regions.
• A humanitarian corridor for evacuations and aid in hard-hit areas.

Notably, the ceasefire does not include all active battle zones, and Ukrainian officials have made it clear that Ukraine is not withdrawing from any occupied territories.

Trump’s Role: A New Peace Broker?

Trump’s involvement in the negotiations has drawn global attention. According to reports, Trump:

• Called both Putin and Zelenskyy, offering mediation.
• Suggested that the U.S. should take control of Ukrainian nuclear power plants to ensure their safety—an idea that has sparked both support and backlash.
• Assured Zelenskyy that the U.S. and European allies would provide more air defense systems to Ukraine.
• Stated that Ukraine and Russia were “on track” toward peace, though many experts remain skeptical.

While Trump has praised his discussions as a "very good" step towards peace, critics argue that his approach may undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty and reward Putin with undeserved concessions.

Reactions: Mixed Global Responses

Ukraine’s Response

Zelenskyy has denied claims that he was pressured into accepting the ceasefire, stating that Ukraine remains committed to its defense. However, some Ukrainian officials have privately expressed concerns that the ceasefire could give Russia an opportunity to regroup and strengthen its forces.

Russia’s Reaction

The Kremlin has welcomed the ceasefire but denies agreeing to any long-term peace terms. Russian officials claim that their military actions are in response to ongoing threats from Ukraine, despite evidence suggesting that Russia violated the truce within hours of its announcement.

International Response

• The U.S. White House has acknowledged Trump’s role but has not fully endorsed the ceasefire, with some officials questioning whether Russia will honor the agreement.
• European leaders have expressed cautious optimism, with German and French officials urging a wider peace deal.
• NATO officials remain wary, warning that Russia may use the ceasefire to reposition troops for a future offensive.
• China and India have welcomed the ceasefire, with Beijing calling it a "constructive step toward diplomacy."

Challenges and Controversies

While the ceasefire has been hailed by some as a step toward peace, there are several key issues that could derail it:

1. Russia’s Alleged Violations

Within hours of the ceasefire being announced, reports emerged of Russian missile strikes in eastern Ukraine. Ukrainian officials claim that Russia is not fully adhering to the truce, raising doubts about its effectiveness.

2. Trump’s Nuclear Power Plant Proposal

One of the most controversial aspects of the ceasefire discussions is Trump’s suggestion that the U.S. take control of Ukrainian nuclear power plants for security reasons. While some see this as a protective measure against Russian aggression, many in Ukraine view it as an infringement on their sovereignty.

3. Political Backlash in the U.S.

Trump’s involvement in the Ukraine ceasefire negotiations has become a divisive political issue in the U.S., with some Republicans supporting his efforts while Democrats question his motives. Critics argue that Trump is using the crisis to boost his foreign policy credentials ahead of the U.S. presidential elections.

4. Ukraine’s Military Position

Many Ukrainian military leaders worry that pausing operations for 30 days could allow Russia to reinforce its positions and plan further offensives. Some analysts suggest that Ukraine should focus on continuing its counteroffensive rather than negotiating with Moscow.

Future Outlook: What Happens Next?

Despite the announcement, the long-term prospects for peace remain uncertain. Key developments to watch include:

• Will Russia honor the ceasefire? Early reports suggest violations have already occurred, raising questions about its sustainability.
• How will Ukraine respond? If Russia continues attacks, Ukraine may resume full military operations before the 30-day period ends.
• Will Trump’s role expand? Trump has hinted at further peace talks, but critics argue that his proposals favor Russia.
• What will NATO and the EU do? Europe is closely monitoring the situation, with leaders calling for broader peace efforts.

As negotiations continue, the world watches whether this truce marks the beginning of the end of the war—or just another temporary pause before renewed violence.

Conclusion: A Step Toward Peace or a Tactical Pause?

The 30-day limited ceasefire represents a rare diplomatic development in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. However, skepticism remains high, as previous ceasefires have failed. Trump’s involvement adds an unpredictable element to the situation, with his controversial proposals drawing both praise and criticism.

For now, Ukraine and Russia have agreed to pause some hostilities, but whether this leads to a lasting peace or another cycle of conflict remains to be seen.

What do you think?

• Will this ceasefire hold, or is it doomed to fail?
• Should the U.S. take control of Ukrainian nuclear plants for security?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!