On March 18, 2025, a tentative breakthrough occurred when U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to a limited 30-day ceasefire following a phone call. This agreement aims to halt attacks on each other’s energy installations and critical infrastructure, providing a sliver of hope for furthering the peace process.
The Ceasefire Agreement
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed cautious optimism about the agreement, although he emphasized the need for clarity regarding the specific terms agreed upon. Despite the apparent step forward, deep-rooted skepticism remains, especially given Trump’s controversial treatment of Zelenskyy during their White House meeting on February 28, where Trump, along with U.S. Vice-President JD Vance, reportedly humiliated the Ukrainian leader. This incident has eroded Trump’s credibility as a reliable peace broker in the eyes of Ukraine and its European allies.
The European Response
Europe has the most to gain from a stable resolution to the ongoing conflict. Without meaningful involvement from the European Union (EU) and neighboring countries, any proposed agreement is likely to fall short. Notably, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s immediate assurances of support to Ukraine, despite the UK’s non-EU status, provided much-needed reassurance to Kyiv.
Challenges Ahead
The ceasefire proposal is overshadowed by existing geopolitical tensions. During previous negotiations in Saudi Arabia, Ukraine demonstrated willingness to engage in dialogue. However, Russia’s precondition—that Western nations must cease all military and intelligence support to Kyiv before peace talks can proceed—remains a significant hurdle.
Furthermore, Putin’s aggressive posturing since the first invasion of Ukraine in 2014, compounded by the escalated conflict in 2022, makes lasting peace elusive. Global leaders must reinforce fundamental principles, particularly the sovereignty of nations. No country should be allowed to breach the territorial integrity of another sovereign state.
The Core Issue of Sovereignty
An unconditional Russian withdrawal from all occupied territories should be a non-negotiable aspect of any peace agreement. Unfortunately, Trump’s reluctance to fully endorse this principle casts doubt on the U.S.’s intentions under his leadership. The global community must ensure that neither the U.S. nor Russia is permitted to achieve strategic gains through illegitimate means.
Conclusion
The 30-day ceasefire may be a step in the right direction, but it is only the beginning of what promises to be a long and complex journey towards lasting peace. For any resolution to succeed, the international community, especially Europe, must actively participate and demand adherence to principles of sovereignty and justice.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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