The US administration has confirmed that progress toward resolving the conflict in Ukraine will begin with an end to attacks on energy and civilian infrastructure, as well as technical consultations on a ceasefire in the Black Sea. The White House statement follows a telephone conversation between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump on March 18, 2025, which was the first major step toward de-escalation since the inauguration of the American leader. Both sides expressed their readiness to immediately begin negotiations, which will take place in the Middle East with the participation of key mediators. 

Following a conversation that lasted more than two hours, Putin and Trump agreed that normalizing relations between Russia and the United States would bring significant benefits to both countries. The White House emphasized that achieving peace in Ukraine opens up prospects for major economic agreements and strengthening global stability. In addition, the leaders touched on the issue of controlling the proliferation of strategic weapons, acknowledging their importance in preventing new crises. The basis for further steps will be a temporary suspension of strikes on infrastructure, which, according to CNN sources, has already been supported by Moscow and Washington. 

The talks were a continuation of diplomatic efforts that began earlier in March. At a meeting in Saudi Arabia on March 11, Ukraine agreed to a 30-day ceasefire proposed by Trump, which has now been backed up by an agreement with Russia. The Kremlin said Putin had ordered the military to refrain from attacking energy facilities and announced a prisoner swap with Kiev on March 19 under the “175 for 175” formula, with 23 wounded Ukrainian soldiers being handed over as a gesture of goodwill. The White House said the technical details of a ceasefire in the Black Sea, including delineating zones and ensuring shipping, would be worked out in the coming days. 

International experts see the agreement as a turning point. According to Reuters, Trump is seeking to freeze the conflict by keeping Russia in control of Crimea and some territories, which is causing concern in Kyiv, which fears a reduction in American support.