Washington/Moscow/Kyiv, March 25 – The United States has brokered agreements between Russia and Ukraine to temporarily halt military operations at sea and refrain from attacking energy infrastructure. As part of the deal, Washington has pledged to advocate for easing specific sanctions on Russia, marking a significant diplomatic shift under President Donald Trump’s administration.
These agreements represent the first formal commitments made by both nations since Trump took office. His administration has been actively pursuing an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine while seeking a renewed dialogue with Moscow. This approach has caused unease among European allies and officials in Kyiv, who remain skeptical about the Kremlin’s intentions.
Key Provisions of the Agreements
The truce comprises two separate agreements—one between the U.S. and Russia and another between the U.S. and Ukraine. However, the terms of Washington’s arrangement with Moscow go beyond those with Kyiv. The U.S. has agreed to work toward lifting restrictions on Russian agricultural and fertilizer exports, an issue that has been a longstanding demand from the Kremlin.
Despite this, Russia has indicated that the agreements will only take full effect if its financial institutions regain access to the global banking system. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, however, refuted this claim, stating that the agreements do not hinge on sanctions relief.
“Even on the day of negotiations, we see Russia trying to manipulate the terms,” Zelenskiy said in his nightly address. “They are already twisting the terms and trying to deceive the world.”
While both Moscow and Kyiv have agreed to the terms in principle, they have expressed doubts about whether the other side will comply. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stressed that Russia would require “clear guarantees” and suggested that Washington should ensure Ukraine abides by the deal.
U.S. Role and Strategic Considerations
The United States has positioned itself as the key mediator in enforcing the agreements, with Trump emphasizing his commitment to resolving the conflict. The negotiations followed separate calls between Trump, Zelenskiy, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, as well as discussions in Saudi Arabia aimed at de-escalating hostilities.
Putin reportedly rejected a broader 30-day ceasefire proposal endorsed by Ukraine. Trump, however, remained optimistic, stating that “progress is being made,” though he acknowledged the deep animosity between the warring nations.
“There’s a lot of hatred,” Trump told reporters. “But this process allows for dialogue, mediation, and a path forward. I believe we can make this work.”
Washington’s diplomatic posture has noticeably shifted in recent weeks. Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, recently made statements suggesting a more conciliatory stance toward Putin, raising concerns among European allies.
Ceasefire Terms and Energy Infrastructure Protection
One of the primary aspects of the agreement is a temporary halt to attacks on energy infrastructure. Throughout the conflict, Russia has repeatedly targeted Ukraine’s power grid, arguing that civilian energy infrastructure plays a role in the country’s military capabilities. Meanwhile, Ukraine has launched strikes on Russian oil and gas facilities, which it claims provide fuel for Moscow’s military and revenue to sustain the war.
Under the new arrangement, both nations have agreed to a 30-day pause in attacks on energy facilities, with the provision taking effect from March 18—the date of the initial discussions between Trump and Putin. Ukraine had insisted on a formal agreement before committing to this temporary ceasefire.
In addition, a separate agreement concerning naval engagements has been reached. Earlier in the war, Russia imposed a de facto blockade on Ukrainian ports, exacerbating global food shortages. However, Ukraine has since regained control of key trade routes, particularly in the Black Sea, following a series of successful military operations.
Despite these gains, Kyiv’s ports remain vulnerable to airstrikes. The new agreement aims to prevent such attacks and ensure the continued flow of grain and other exports. However, Russia has tied its compliance to sanctions relief, particularly the restoration of financial links between Russian agricultural banks and the global SWIFT payment system—a condition that would require cooperation from European nations.
Concerns Over the Future of the Agreement
While Trump’s administration is pushing for a diplomatic breakthrough, Ukraine and its European allies remain wary. There are growing concerns that the U.S. president may strike a deal that heavily favors Russia, particularly if it includes conditions such as Ukraine relinquishing its NATO aspirations or ceding territory claimed by Moscow.
Zelenskiy has insisted that his government will remain vigilant. He warned that any violations by Russia would prompt Ukraine to request additional sanctions and military support from Washington.
“We will uphold our commitments, but if Russia breaks this agreement, we will demand stronger actions against them,” Zelenskiy stated.
Looking Ahead
The coming weeks will test the viability of these agreements and whether both sides will adhere to their commitments. The international community will closely monitor whether Moscow follows through without additional demands. Meanwhile, Trump’s push to ease sanctions on Russia could face opposition from lawmakers in Washington and European officials who remain skeptical of Moscow’s long-term intentions.
As the war continues to shape global geopolitics, the effectiveness of this temporary truce will determine whether a lasting resolution is possible or if hostilities will resume at full scale.