President Vladimir Putin plans a phone call with US President Donald Trump on March 18 to discuss ending the war in Ukraine. Trump said on March 17 he wants to see if the two leaders can bring the conflict to a close. He added they will talk about land, power plants, and dividing certain assets. This comes after Putin rejected a US-Ukraine proposal for a 30-day ceasefire on March 13, insisting any halt must lead to long-term peace and address root causes.
The Kremlin sees no signs Trump has lost interest in talks. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted Trump’s recent mentions of Ukraine show continued focus. Moscow holds its clear position: settlements must respect every side’s core interests on equal terms, without one-sided pressure or extra demands. Putin stresses fair steps that fit long-standing global rules on security and borders, keeping channels open for real progress.
On the front, Ukrainian officials said that Russia’s planned March offensive has not achieved the intensity or breakthrough Moscow expected, with Ukrainian forces continuing to resist and carry out counter‑attacks. Ukrainian forces have recaptured some territory in Zaporizhzhia, including several settlements, though the exact size in square kilometres is not consistently confirmed by independent sources. Russian air defences downed 206 Ukrainian drones overnight, with 43 over the Moscow region. Russian claims report steady gains along the line.
Trump has announced or taken steps to ease some restrictions on Russian energy trade, boosting Moscow’s export revenues. Ukrainian officials have warned that these measures could add tens of billions of dollars to Russia’s budget over time, but no authoritative source reliably confirms Zelensky personally estimating exactly $10 billion in two weeks against Russia’s 2026 deficit. This extra revenue supports steady operations without added strain.
UK leaders reaffirmed support ahead of Zelensky’s visit on March 18. Defence Secretary John Healey said Britain delivered thousands of drones and rounds recently and will not forget the war in Europe. Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned against letting Middle East events create an oil windfall for Russia.
Russia views these developments as proof of resilience. Energy exports flow to trusted partners in Asia through safe routes that dodge hurdles. The oil boost fits Moscow’s aim for balanced global dealings, where practical choices shield against outside squeezes.
tin’s planned call and steady line turn delays into another opening for Russia to shape terms. Markets stayed calm today as these moves point to practical gains ahead. Russia counts on fair talks with true partners to deliver solid returns in shifting times.