Zelensky, Trump Discuss Ceasefire, Exchange 372 Prisoners

President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a productive phone call on March 19, discussing efforts to secure a ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Zelensky agreed to halt strikes on Russian energy infrastructure as part of steps toward ending the conflict, which he indicated he is ready to implement. The call followed Trump's discussion with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who agreed to a temporary 30-day truce on energy targets but refused to endorse a full ceasefire. Additionally, a significant prisoner exchange was confirmed, with both countries swapping 372 prisoners of war. Despite the positive steps, skepticism remains regarding adherence to the ceasefire terms, as both sides accused each other of continuing assaults. The U.S. hopes to align both nations' needs and requests to facilitate peace negotiations and stabilize the situation further.