Ukrainian president confirms talk with US counterpart, eyes next steps amid Russia's escalation

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to have a conversation with US counterpart Donald Trump today, on March 19, to discuss the next steps in addressing Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine.

The news comes just one day after Trump held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where the two leaders reportedly agreed on a temporary ceasefire concerning energy infrastructure, though Russia continued to attack Ukraine on the night of March 19, Caliber.Az reports citing Ukrainian media.

Zelenskyy confirmed the upcoming dialogue with Trump during a press conference with Finnish President Alexander Stubb. “Today, I will speak to President Trump. We will discuss the details, and I believe the conversation will focus on the next steps," Zelenskyy said, referring to the progress of their previous team meetings.

He added that any progress made has often been hindered by Russia's dissatisfaction. "If it weren't for Russia, things would be moving forward," he remarked.

Zelenskyy also indicated that he expected Trump to provide further details about his conversation with Putin.

"Some details of the talks between Trump and Putin have already been shared with us. Our teams have been communicating throughout the evening, but I would prefer to discuss specifics directly with President Trump," Zelenskyy explained.

He emphasized that Ukraine is ready to send a technical team for the next steps but refrained from revealing the format or timing of future meetings.

The dialogue between Trump and Zelenskyy is particularly significant given the tensions that have characterized their previous interactions. The last public exchange between the two leaders, when Zelenskyy visited the White House on February 28, ended in disagreement, with Trump and US Vice President JD Vance expressing dissatisfaction with Ukraine’s handling of the war.

In the earlier conversation between Trump and Putin on March 18, the two leaders reportedly agreed on a temporary halt to energy-related attacks, though Russian forces continued their bombardment of Ukraine. Putin also indicated that a prisoner exchange would be part of any ceasefire agreement and demanded that Ukraine cease mobilization and rearmament of its armed forces. However, the effectiveness of the ceasefire remains unclear, as Russia’s actions on the ground suggest a continued escalation.

Zelenskyy’s upcoming conversation with Trump is expected to provide more clarity on the details of the situation and the future direction of efforts to resolve the war.

By Vafa Guliyeva