Russian President Vladimir Putin has outlined two major conditions for ending the war in Ukraine, according to the Kremlin. He made the demands during a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (March 18), as part of ongoing discussions on a potential ceasefire.
<h2>Limited ceasefire and peace talks</h2>
The White House confirmed that Russia has agreed to a temporary ceasefire targeting energy and infrastructure in Ukraine. This is part of a US-led effort to bring the conflict to an end.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-frank-call-with-putin-leads-to-surprise-ukraine-ceasefire-prisoner-exchange-what-else-they-discussed-8867260">Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;frank&rsquo; call with Putin leads to surprise Ukraine ceasefire, prisoner exchange&nbsp;- What else they discussed</a>
Following the call, the White House stated that both sides had agreed to hold "technical negotiations" on a maritime ceasefire, with further discussions planned for a full ceasefire and lasting peace.
&ldquo;These negotiations will begin immediately in the Middle East,&rdquo; the White House announced.
<h2>Putin&rsquo;s two key conditions for ending the war</h2>
During the call, Putin made it clear that the conflict could only be resolved if Western nations stopped supplying military aid and intelligence to Ukraine.
"It was emphasised that the key condition for preventing an escalation of the conflict and working towards its resolution through political and diplomatic means should be a complete cessation of foreign military assistance and the provision of intelligence to Kyiv," the Kremlin said.
Additionally, Putin insisted that Ukraine must not be allowed to rearm.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-putin-call-underway-white-house-says-talks-going-well-russia-ukraine-war-live-updates-8866815">Trump-Putin call ends after over two hours, White House and Kremlin confirm | Key HIGHLIGHTS</a>
"The Russian side has outlined a number of essential points concerning effective control over a possible ceasefire along the entire contact line and the need to halt both forced mobilisation in Ukraine and the rearmament of the Ukrainian armed forces," the Kremlin added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The White House confirmed that Russia has agreed to a temporary ceasefire targeting energy and infrastructure in Ukraine. This is part of a US-led effort to bring the conflict to an end.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has outlined two major conditions for ending the war in Ukraine, according to the Kremlin. He made the demands during a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (March 18), as part of ongoing discussions on a potential ceasefire. Limited ceasefire and peace talks The White House confirmed that Russia has agreed to a temporary ceasefire targeting energy and infrastructure in Ukraine. This is part of a US-led effort to bring the conflict to an end. Also read: Trump’s ‘frank’ call with Putin leads to surprise Ukraine ceasefire, prisoner exchange - What else they discussed Following the call, the White House stated that both sides had agreed to hold "technical negotiations" on a maritime ceasefire, with further discussions planned for a full ceasefire and lasting peace. “These negotiations will begin immediately in the Middle East,” the White House announced. Putin’s two key conditions for ending the war During the call, Putin made it clear that the conflict could only be resolved if Western nations stopped supplying military aid and intelligence to Ukraine. "It was emphasised that the key condition for preventing an escalation of the conflict and working towards its resolution through political and diplomatic means should be a complete cessation of foreign military assistance and the provision of intelligence to Kyiv," the Kremlin said. Additionally, Putin insisted that Ukraine must not be allowed to rearm. Also read: Trump-Putin call ends after over two hours, White House and Kremlin confirm | Key HIGHLIGHTS "The Russian side has outlined a number of essential points concerning effective control over a possible ceasefire along the entire contact line and the need to halt both forced mobilisation in Ukraine and the rearmament of the Ukrainian armed forces," the Kremlin added. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin tells Trump ‘two big conditions’ for ending Ukraine war: Will US and West comply?

A phone conversation between US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding a possible ceasefire in Ukraine has ended, both the Kremlin and the White House confirmed on Tuesday (March 18).
The discussion, which began at 1400 GMT, lasted for more than two hours.
<h2>Key points from the Trump-Putin call</h2>
The White House confirmed that Russia has agreed to a limited ceasefire targeting energy and infrastructure in Ukraine as part of a US-led initiative to end the conflict.
According to the Kremlin, Putin accepted Trump&rsquo;s proposal for both Russia and Ukraine to stop striking each other's energy infrastructure for 30 days and has issued a corresponding order to the Russian military.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-putin-call-underway-white-house-says-talks-going-well-russia-ukraine-war-live-updates-8866815">Trump-Putin call ends after over two hours, White House and Kremlin confirm | Key HIGHLIGHTS</a>
In addition, Putin told Trump that a prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine is set to take place on Wednesday under a 175-for-175 arrangement.
"Vladimir Putin said that on March 19, the Russian and Ukrainian sides would exchange prisoners -- 175 for 175 people," the Kremlin said in a readout of the call.
The Kremlin also said that Putin told Trump the US and its allies must end military and intelligence support for Ukraine if they want to halt hostilities. 
"It was emphasised that the key condition for preventing an escalation of the conflict and working towards its resolution through political and diplomatic means should be a complete cessation of foreign military assistance and the provision of intelligence to Kyiv," the Kremlin said in a statement.
As a gesture of goodwill, Russia will transfer 23 seriously wounded Ukrainian servicemen to Kyiv.
<h2>Negotiations for full ceasefire</h2>
A statement from the White House following the call confirmed that both sides had agreed to hold &ldquo;technical negotiations&rdquo; on a maritime ceasefire, followed by further discussions on a full ceasefire and lasting peace.
&ldquo;These negotiations will begin immediately in the Middle East,&rdquo; the White House said.
Trump and Putin also discussed the potential for a stronger US-Russia relationship, with both agreeing on the economic and geopolitical benefits of improved ties.
"Today, President Trump and President Putin spoke about the need for peace and a ceasefire in the Ukraine war. Both leaders agreed this conflict needs to end with a lasting peace," the White House stated. 
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"This conflict should never have started and should have been ended long ago with sincere and good faith peace efforts. The leaders agreed that the movement to peace will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire, as well as technical negotiations on implementation of a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, full ceasefire and permanent peace. These negotiations will begin immediately in the Middle East," it added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The White House confirmed that Russia has agreed to a limited ceasefire targeting energy and infrastructure in Ukraine as part of a US-led initiative to end the conflict.

A phone conversation between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding a possible ceasefire in Ukraine has ended, both the Kremlin and the White House confirmed on Tuesday (March 18). The discussion, which began at 1400 GMT, lasted for more than two hours. Key points from the Trump-Putin call The White House confirmed that Russia has agreed to a limited ceasefire targeting energy and infrastructure in Ukraine as part of a US-led initiative to end the conflict. According to the Kremlin, Putin accepted Trump’s proposal for both Russia and Ukraine to stop striking each other's energy infrastructure for 30 days and has issued a corresponding order to the Russian military. Also read: Trump-Putin call ends after over two hours, White House and Kremlin confirm | Key HIGHLIGHTS In addition, Putin told Trump that a prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine is set to take place on Wednesday under a 175-for-175 arrangement. "Vladimir Putin said that on March 19, the Russian and Ukrainian sides would exchange prisoners -- 175 for 175 people," the Kremlin said in a readout of the call. The Kremlin also said that Putin told Trump the US and its allies must end military and intelligence support for Ukraine if they want to halt hostilities. "It was emphasised that the key condition for preventing an escalation of the conflict and working towards its resolution through political and diplomatic means should be a complete cessation of foreign military assistance and the provision of intelligence to Kyiv," the Kremlin said in a statement. As a gesture of goodwill, Russia will transfer 23 seriously wounded Ukrainian servicemen to Kyiv. Negotiations for full ceasefire A statement from the White House following the call confirmed that both sides had agreed to hold “technical negotiations” on a maritime ceasefire, followed by further discussions on a full ceasefire and lasting peace. “These negotiations will begin immediately in the Middle East,” the White House said. Trump and Putin also discussed the potential for a stronger US-Russia relationship, with both agreeing on the economic and geopolitical benefits of improved ties. "Today, President Trump and President Putin spoke about the need for peace and a ceasefire in the Ukraine war. Both leaders agreed this conflict needs to end with a lasting peace," the White House stated. Also read: Who is Judge James Boasberg? The Obama-appointed judge Trump wants impeached "This conflict should never have started and should have been ended long ago with sincere and good faith peace efforts. The leaders agreed that the movement to peace will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire, as well as technical negotiations on implementation of a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, full ceasefire and permanent peace. These negotiations will begin immediately in the Middle East," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump’s ‘frank’ call with Putin leads to limited Ukraine ceasefire, prisoner exchange - What else they discussed

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that Russia is attempting to strengthen its military position before agreeing to any ceasefire in Ukraine.
"They want a stronger position before the ceasefire," Zelensky stated during a press conference in Kyiv on Saturday. He further added, "I think the delaying of the process is exactly because of what I said. They want to improve their situation on the battlefield."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-lying-to-everyone-zelensky-demands-strong-pressure-on-russia-blasts-moscows-delaying-tactics-8856653" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Putin is lying to everyone&rsquo;: Zelensky demands &lsquo;strong pressure&rsquo; on Russia, blasts Moscow&rsquo;s &lsquo;delaying tactics&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Zelensky appoints team of negotiators for possible peace talks</h2>
In a step towards possible peace negotiations, Zelensky has appointed an official delegation to represent Kyiv in any future talks aimed at ending the war, which has now lasted more than three years. According to a presidential decree issued on Saturday, his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, will lead the delegation. Other members include Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga, Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, and Deputy Chief of Presidential Staff Pavlo Palisa.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-coalition-of-the-willing-uk-keir-starmer-france-emmanuel-macron-nato-unite-to-push-russia-into-ceasefire-as-putin-stalls-8856438" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Will build Ukraine&rsquo;s own defences': UK, France, NATO unite to push Russia into ceasefire as Putin 'stalls'</a>
Earlier on Saturday, Zelensky joined a virtual meeting of the "coalition of the willing" alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. The leaders discussed continued support for Ukraine and stressed the urgency of securing a commitment to peace from Russia. The meeting, attended by representatives from 26 nations, highlighted ongoing international efforts to support Ukraine, according to Downing Street.
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Following the discussions, Zelensky shared his statement on the social media platform X, stressing the urgency of pressuring Russia into peace negotiations.
Zelensky said that achieving peace must start "unconditionally" and that if Russia refuses, "strong pressure must be applied until they do. Moscow understands one language."
He also talked about a US-backed ceasefire proposal, introduced on Tuesday, which calls for a 30-day halt to hostilities across air, sea, and land. "This is an American proposal &mdash; a full, unconditional ceasefire for 30 days. In that time, without killings, it would truly be possible to negotiate all aspects of a real peace," he explained.
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However, Zelensky accused Russia of obstructing peace efforts, saying, "A ceasefire could have already happened, but Russia is doing everything to prevent it."
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "They (Russia) want a stronger position before the ceasefire," Ukrainian President Zelensky stated during a press conference in Kyiv on Saturday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that Russia is attempting to strengthen its military position before agreeing to any ceasefire in Ukraine. "They want a stronger position before the ceasefire," Zelensky stated during a press conference in Kyiv on Saturday. He further added, "I think the delaying of the process is exactly because of what I said. They want to improve their situation on the battlefield." Also read: ‘Putin is lying to everyone’: Zelensky demands ‘strong pressure’ on Russia, blasts Moscow’s ‘delaying tactics’ Zelensky appoints team of negotiators for possible peace talks In a step towards possible peace negotiations, Zelensky has appointed an official delegation to represent Kyiv in any future talks aimed at ending the war, which has now lasted more than three years. According to a presidential decree issued on Saturday, his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, will lead the delegation. Other members include Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga, Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, and Deputy Chief of Presidential Staff Pavlo Palisa. Also read: 'Will build Ukraine’s own defences': UK, France, NATO unite to push Russia into ceasefire as Putin 'stalls' Earlier on Saturday, Zelensky joined a virtual meeting of the "coalition of the willing" alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. The leaders discussed continued support for Ukraine and stressed the urgency of securing a commitment to peace from Russia. The meeting, attended by representatives from 26 nations, highlighted ongoing international efforts to support Ukraine, according to Downing Street. Also read: Trump to revive his travel ban: 43 nations on the chopping block, including Russia and Iran Following the discussions, Zelensky shared his statement on the social media platform X, stressing the urgency of pressuring Russia into peace negotiations. Zelensky said that achieving peace must start "unconditionally" and that if Russia refuses, "strong pressure must be applied until they do. Moscow understands one language." He also talked about a US-backed ceasefire proposal, introduced on Tuesday, which calls for a 30-day halt to hostilities across air, sea, and land. "This is an American proposal — a full, unconditional ceasefire for 30 days. In that time, without killings, it would truly be possible to negotiate all aspects of a real peace," he explained. Also read: Elon Musk's budget scraps organisation that helped find Ukrainian children kidnapped by Russia However, Zelensky accused Russia of obstructing peace efforts, saying, "A ceasefire could have already happened, but Russia is doing everything to prevent it." (With inputs from agencies)

'They want a stronger position': Zelensky reveals why Russia is stalling a ceasefire

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer led a virtual summit with Ukraine&rsquo;s allies to discuss security assurances in the event of a peace agreement. The meeting, attended by representatives from 26 nations, included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron, according to Downing Street.
Following the discussions, Zelensky shared his statement on the social media platform X, stressing the urgency of pressuring Russia into peace negotiations.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-coalition-of-the-willing-uk-keir-starmer-france-emmanuel-macron-nato-unite-to-push-russia-into-ceasefire-as-putin-stalls-8856438">'Will build Ukraine&rsquo;s own defences': UK, France, NATO unite to push Russia into ceasefire as Putin 'stalls'</a>
<h2>Zelensky: &ldquo;Moscow understands one language&rdquo;</h2>
Zelensky said that achieving peace must start "unconditionally" and that if Russia refuses, "strong pressure must be applied until they do. Moscow understands one language."
He also talked about a US-backed ceasefire proposal, introduced on Tuesday, which calls for a 30-day halt to hostilities across air, sea, and land. "This is an American proposal &mdash; a full, unconditional ceasefire for 30 days. In that time, without killings, it would truly be possible to negotiate all aspects of a real peace," he explained.
However, Zelensky accused Russia of obstructing peace efforts, saying, "A ceasefire could have already happened, but Russia is doing everything to prevent it."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-calls-on-ukraine-army-to-surrender-in-kursk-region-after-trumps-strong-appeal-8854315">Putin calls on Ukraine army to 'surrender' in Kursk region after Trump's 'strong' appeal</a>
He also dismissed claims from Russian President Vladimir Putin, adding, "Putin is lying to everyone about the situation on the ground, especially about what&rsquo;s happening in the Kursk region, where our Ukrainian forces continue their operations."
Zelensky said that Ukraine&rsquo;s forces had "stabilised the situation on the front in Donetsk region &mdash; specifically Pokrovsk," and argued that Putin was deliberately prolonging the conflict. 
"Putin is also lying about how a ceasefire is supposedly too complicated. In reality, everything can be controlled, and we have discussed this with the Americans. The truth is, Putin has already dragged out the war for nearly a week after the talks in Jeddah. And he will keep dragging it out," he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-confirms-call-with-russian-president-putin-says-he-pleaded-with-russian-prez-to-spare-lives-8853917">&lsquo;Horrible, bloody war can finally end&rsquo;: Trump pleads with Putin to spare Ukrainian lives</a>
<h2>Calls for tougher sanctions and stronger defence</h2>
The Ukrainian leader urged European nations to take more decisive action against Russia, calling for sanctions to be reinforced rather than eased. "This includes sanctions against Russia that must not only be maintained but continuously strengthened," he said.
Zelensky also stressed the need for security guarantees to ensure long-term peace. "This is Russia&rsquo;s war &mdash; more than three years of full-scale fighting and destruction. To stop this, active pressure is needed, not just talks. Pressure on Russia. Strong measures are needed to take even the first steps toward ending the war. This includes sanctions against Russia that must not only be maintained but continuously strengthened. I ask you to take these steps and to work with your partners on this," he said. 
He suggested that European forces should be deployed on Ukrainian soil, with the United States providing additional support.
He further called for increased investment in defence production, both in Ukraine and across Europe, to speed up the manufacturing of critical military supplies. "It shouldn&rsquo;t take 3 to 5 years to produce ammunition when it&rsquo;s about your defence and security. Please, do it as soon as possible," he urged.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannot-confirm-this-at-all-russia-shrugs-off-claims-it-sidelined-trumps-ukraine-envoy-from-ceasefire-talks-8853668">'Can't confirm this at&nbsp;all': Russia shrugs off claims about sidelining Trump&rsquo;s Ukraine envoy from&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;talks</a>
<h2>Ukraine&rsquo;s security tied to Europe&rsquo;s stability</h2>
Zelensky warned against considering Russia&rsquo;s stance when deciding the deployment of security forces, calling it "a very bad signal." He added, "The contingent must be stationed on Ukrainian soil. This is a security guarantee for Ukraine and a security guarantee for Europe."
"If Putin wants to bring some foreign contingent onto Russia&rsquo;s territory, that&rsquo;s his business. But it is not his business to decide anything about Ukraine&rsquo;s and Europe&rsquo;s security," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Zelensky said that achieving peace must start "unconditionally" and that if Russia refuses, "strong pressure must be applied until they do. Moscow understands one language."

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer led a virtual summit with Ukraine’s allies to discuss security assurances in the event of a peace agreement. The meeting, attended by representatives from 26 nations, included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron, according to Downing Street. Following the discussions, Zelensky shared his statement on the social media platform X, stressing the urgency of pressuring Russia into peace negotiations. Also read: 'Will build Ukraine’s own defences': UK, France, NATO unite to push Russia into ceasefire as Putin 'stalls' Zelensky: “Moscow understands one language” Zelensky said that achieving peace must start "unconditionally" and that if Russia refuses, "strong pressure must be applied until they do. Moscow understands one language." He also talked about a US-backed ceasefire proposal, introduced on Tuesday, which calls for a 30-day halt to hostilities across air, sea, and land. "This is an American proposal — a full, unconditional ceasefire for 30 days. In that time, without killings, it would truly be possible to negotiate all aspects of a real peace," he explained. However, Zelensky accused Russia of obstructing peace efforts, saying, "A ceasefire could have already happened, but Russia is doing everything to prevent it." Also read: Putin calls on Ukraine army to 'surrender' in Kursk region after Trump's 'strong' appeal He also dismissed claims from Russian President Vladimir Putin, adding, "Putin is lying to everyone about the situation on the ground, especially about what’s happening in the Kursk region, where our Ukrainian forces continue their operations." Zelensky said that Ukraine’s forces had "stabilised the situation on the front in Donetsk region — specifically Pokrovsk," and argued that Putin was deliberately prolonging the conflict. "Putin is also lying about how a ceasefire is supposedly too complicated. In reality, everything can be controlled, and we have discussed this with the Americans. The truth is, Putin has already dragged out the war for nearly a week after the talks in Jeddah. And he will keep dragging it out," he said. Also read: ‘Horrible, bloody war can finally end’: Trump pleads with Putin to spare Ukrainian lives Calls for tougher sanctions and stronger defence The Ukrainian leader urged European nations to take more decisive action against Russia, calling for sanctions to be reinforced rather than eased. "This includes sanctions against Russia that must not only be maintained but continuously strengthened," he said. Zelensky also stressed the need for security guarantees to ensure long-term peace. "This is Russia’s war — more than three years of full-scale fighting and destruction. To stop this, active pressure is needed, not just talks. Pressure on Russia. Strong measures are needed to take even the first steps toward ending the war. This includes sanctions against Russia that must not only be maintained but continuously strengthened. I ask you to take these steps and to work with your partners on this," he said. He suggested that European forces should be deployed on Ukrainian soil, with the United States providing additional support. He further called for increased investment in defence production, both in Ukraine and across Europe, to speed up the manufacturing of critical military supplies. "It shouldn’t take 3 to 5 years to produce ammunition when it’s about your defence and security. Please, do it as soon as possible," he urged. Also read: 'Can't confirm this at all': Russia shrugs off claims about sidelining Trump’s Ukraine envoy from ceasefire talks Ukraine’s security tied to Europe’s stability Zelensky warned against considering Russia’s stance when deciding the deployment of security forces, calling it "a very bad signal." He added, "The contingent must be stationed on Ukrainian soil. This is a security guarantee for Ukraine and a security guarantee for Europe." "If Putin wants to bring some foreign contingent onto Russia’s territory, that’s his business. But it is not his business to decide anything about Ukraine’s and Europe’s security," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Putin is lying to everyone’: Zelensky demands ‘strong pressure’ on Russia, blasts Moscow’s ‘delaying tactics’

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> on Friday (March 14) said that the US had productive discussions with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Thursday.&nbsp;
Trump added that he requested Putin to spare the lives of Ukrainian soldiers on the frontline.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whats-in-trumps-ukraine-ceasefire-deal-and-why-russian-president-putin-rejected-it-8852846">What&rsquo;s in Trump's Ukraine ceasefire deal and why Russian President Putin rejected it?</a>
"We had very good and productive discussions with President Vladimir Putin of Russia yesterday, and there is a very good chance that this horrible, bloody war can finally come to an end &mdash; BUT, AT THIS VERY MOMENT, THOUSANDS OF UKRAINIAN TROOPS ARE COMPLETELY SURROUNDED BY THE RUSSIAN MILITARY, AND IN A VERY BAD AND VULNERABLE POSITION," US President wrote on his social media platform Truth Social.
"I have strongly requested the President Putin that their lives be spared. This would be a horrible massacre, one not seen since World War II. God bless them all!!!" he added.
Shortly after Donald Trump&rsquo;s social media post, the White House clarified that it was the US envoy, Steve Witkoff, who spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, not Trump himself.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-hails-chuck-schumers-shock-reversal-on-funding-bill-as-democrats-cry-betrayal-us-government-shutdown-8853849">&lsquo;Smart move&rsquo;: Trump hails Chuck Schumer&rsquo;s shock reversal on funding bill as Democrats cry &lsquo;betrayal&rsquo;</a>
The confusion arose from Trump&rsquo;s post which made it seem as though he had personally spoken with the Russian leader.
Trump's claim that &ldquo;thousands of Ukrainian troops are completely surrounded by the Russian military&rdquo; in the Kursk region was dismissed by Ukrainian sources, Reuters reported.
Meanwhile, Witkoff is reported to have held discussions with Russian officials after Putin outlined his conditions for Ukraine&rsquo;s proposed 30-day ceasefire. The Russian president did not fully support Kyiv&rsquo;s proposal but expressed a willingness to discuss &ldquo;issues&rdquo; with Trump.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannot-confirm-this-at-all-russia-shrugs-off-claims-it-sidelined-trumps-ukraine-envoy-from-ceasefire-talks-8853668">'Can't confirm this at&nbsp;all': Russia shrugs off claims about sidelining Trump&rsquo;s Ukraine envoy from&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;talks</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "I have strongly requested to President Putin that their lives be spared. This would be a horrible massacre, one not seen since World War II. God bless them all!!!" Trump said.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (March 14) said that the US had productive discussions with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Thursday. Trump added that he requested Putin to spare the lives of Ukrainian soldiers on the frontline. Also read: What’s in Trump's Ukraine ceasefire deal and why Russian President Putin rejected it? "We had very good and productive discussions with President Vladimir Putin of Russia yesterday, and there is a very good chance that this horrible, bloody war can finally come to an end — BUT, AT THIS VERY MOMENT, THOUSANDS OF UKRAINIAN TROOPS ARE COMPLETELY SURROUNDED BY THE RUSSIAN MILITARY, AND IN A VERY BAD AND VULNERABLE POSITION," US President wrote on his social media platform Truth Social. "I have strongly requested the President Putin that their lives be spared. This would be a horrible massacre, one not seen since World War II. God bless them all!!!" he added. Shortly after Donald Trump’s social media post, the White House clarified that it was the US envoy, Steve Witkoff, who spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, not Trump himself. Also read: ‘Smart move’: Trump hails Chuck Schumer’s shock reversal on funding bill as Democrats cry ‘betrayal’ The confusion arose from Trump’s post which made it seem as though he had personally spoken with the Russian leader. Trump's claim that “thousands of Ukrainian troops are completely surrounded by the Russian military” in the Kursk region was dismissed by Ukrainian sources, Reuters reported. Meanwhile, Witkoff is reported to have held discussions with Russian officials after Putin outlined his conditions for Ukraine’s proposed 30-day ceasefire. The Russian president did not fully support Kyiv’s proposal but expressed a willingness to discuss “issues” with Trump. Also read: 'Can't confirm this at all': Russia shrugs off claims about sidelining Trump’s Ukraine envoy from ceasefire talks (With inputs from agencies)

‘Horrible, bloody war can finally end’: Trump pleads with Putin to spare Ukrainian lives

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that negotiators are headed to Russia "right now" for talks on a possible ceasefire with Ukraine after Kyiv agreed to a 30-day truce. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Trump says negotiators headed to Russia 'right now'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday dismissed the order on a ceasefire by Russian President Vladimir Putin calling it as 'hypocrisy'. Watch this video to know more.

Ukraine rejects Putin’s Christmas ceasefire, calls it 'Hypocrisy'

The Pentagon said on Thursday said that the world was deeply skeptical about Russian President Vladimir Putin's call for a 36-hour ceasefire in Ukraine. Watch this video to know more.

Why is Pentagon skeptical over Putin's call for ceasefire?

Ukraine rejects Russian truce order as U.S. and Germany sends combat vehicles

Pakistan&nbsp;on Wednesday (March 23) called for a&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and&nbsp;suggested that Islamic countries and their close ally&nbsp;China&nbsp;mediate in the Russia-Ukraine&nbsp;conflict.

Speaking during a news conference after the closing session of the Organization of&nbsp;Islamic&nbsp;Cooperation foreign ministers’ conference in the&nbsp;Pakistani capital Islamabad, the country’s foreign minister said the meeting had concluded it was necessary to prevent deaths in the conflict.

“This session… has stressed the need for the establishment of humanitarian corridors to ensure safe movements of civilians&nbsp;and&nbsp;humanitarian supplies,” Shah Mehmood Qureshi told reporters.

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He said OIC member states were ready to “support&nbsp;and&nbsp;facilitate” dialogue between Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ukraine.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi was a special guest at the conference.

“(China&nbsp;and&nbsp;IOC members) are willing to work collectively&nbsp;and&nbsp;after deliberations, we are willing to play a role to mediate,&nbsp;and&nbsp;see that this conflict comes to an end,” said Qureshi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ahead-of-no-confidence-vote-3-allies-of-khan-join-opposition-pak-pm-says-wont-resign-464991">Ahead of no-confidence vote, 3 allies of Khan join opposition; Pak PM says ‘won’t resign'</a>

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday (March 22) made the same suggestion while speaking at the OIC meeting.

Khan's comments came hours after&nbsp;China&nbsp;and&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;echoed concerns about "spill-over effects of unilateral sanctions" on Russia, according to a statement by the Chinese foreign ministry.

China&nbsp;has not condemned Russia's invasion, though it has expressed concern about the war.

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng said on Saturday (March 19) that Western sanctions against Russia were getting "more&nbsp;and&nbsp;more outrageous.

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan hosts OIC meeting: Conference ahead of PM Imran Khan's no-confidence vote

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Pakistan on Wednesday (March 23) called for a ceasefire in Ukraine and suggested that Islamic countries and their close ally China mediate in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Pakistan on Wednesday (March 23) called for a ceasefire in Ukraine and suggested that Islamic countries and their close ally China mediate in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Speaking during a news conference after the closing session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation foreign ministers’ conference in the Pakistani capital Islamabad, the country’s foreign minister said the meeting had concluded it was necessary to prevent deaths in the conflict. “This session… has stressed the need for the establishment of humanitarian corridors to ensure safe movements of civilians and humanitarian supplies,” Shah Mehmood Qureshi told reporters. Also read | Hacker group Anonymous hacks into printers ‘all across Russia’ to print anti-war sentiment He said OIC member states were ready to “support and facilitate” dialogue between Russia and Ukraine. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi was a special guest at the conference. “(China and IOC members) are willing to work collectively and after deliberations, we are willing to play a role to mediate, and see that this conflict comes to an end,” said Qureshi. Also read | Ahead of no-confidence vote, 3 allies of Khan join opposition; Pak PM says ‘won’t resign' Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday (March 22) made the same suggestion while speaking at the OIC meeting. Khan's comments came hours after China and Pakistan echoed concerns about "spill-over effects of unilateral sanctions" on Russia, according to a statement by the Chinese foreign ministry. China has not condemned Russia's invasion, though it has expressed concern about the war. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng said on Saturday (March 19) that Western sanctions against Russia were getting "more and more outrageous. Watch | Pakistan hosts OIC meeting: Conference ahead of PM Imran Khan's no-confidence vote

Pakistan calls for Ukraine ceasefire, offers mediation by China and Islamic nations

The representatives of Ukraine, Russia and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe agreed on establishing a complete and comprehensive ceasefire

Ukraine says Pro-Russian rebels violated 2 ceasefires