Ukraine: The Latest Putin rejects ceasefire (again) in 'no breakthrough' phone call with Trump
Mar 18, 2025
Ivana Stradner, a Special Correspondent at the Kyiv Post and expert on Eastern Europe, joins to discuss the latest developments in the Ukraine conflict. They delve into the recent rejection of a ceasefire by Putin and contemplate its impact on the geopolitical landscape. The conversation expands to significant protests in Serbia, shedding light on the fight for justice and democracy in the region. Stradner also highlights NATO's strategic responses to the ongoing tensions and the challenges of Russian influence in Eastern Europe.
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Limited Ceasefire Favors Russia
- The Trump-Putin call yielded limited results, including a prisoner swap and a 30-day halt on energy infrastructure strikes.
- This limited ceasefire favors Russia, as Ukraine's strikes on their energy infrastructure proved effective.
US Concessions to Russia
- America offered unreciprocated concessions to Russia by having the lengthy call and agreeing to limited terms.
- The public readout likely conceals more privately agreed upon terms between the two leaders.
Putin's Diplomatic Win
- Putin successfully played Trump by getting a limited ceasefire at no cost, appearing as a global player.
- The US seemingly abandoned its previous full ceasefire position, a win for Putin.