President Putin Assures Safety of Ukrainian Soldiers in Kursk at President Trump's Request
Moscow, March 15 – Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Friday that Ukrainian soldiers who surrender in the Kursk region would be spared, following a request from U.S. President Donald Trump. This statement came after Trump urged Putin to ensure the safety of Ukrainian troops amidst Russia's offensive to drive Ukrainian forces out of the Kursk region.
In a social media post, President Trump wrote, "I have strongly urged President Putin to protect the lives of Ukrainian soldiers. Their current position is extremely dangerous." He further warned that Ukrainian troops were encircled in Kursk and that "the world cannot allow the largest mass killing since World War II."
Responding to Trump's request, Putin stated, "If Ukrainian soldiers surrender, their lives and dignity will be protected in accordance with international and Russian law." However, Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council, made it clear that "those who refuse to surrender will be ruthlessly annihilated."
Ukraine Denies Encirclement in Kursk
Ukraine’s military rejected Russia's claim, stating that no such encirclement of their troops in Kursk had taken place. They argued that soldiers were repositioning strategically rather than being surrounded. In recent weeks, Russian forces have rapidly advanced, capturing Ukraine's remaining strongholds in Kursk. Military analysts suggest that Ukrainian troops are facing supply shortages and may soon lose access to vital supply routes.
Ceasefire Proposal & International Negotiations
The Trump administration has proposed a 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine has already accepted. However, Russia insists that the proposal requires further revisions. Yesterday, Putin held an extended meeting in Moscow with Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, to discuss the proposal. Trump described the talks as "highly productive."
Speaking at the G7 summit in La Malbaie, Canada, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, "Ceasefire talks are progressing, but peace remains a distant goal." He confirmed that Witkoff would return from Moscow soon and that further discussions on Ukraine would take place over the weekend.
Russia Accuses Ukraine of Attacks on Civilians
Russia has accused Ukrainian forces of attacking civilians in Kursk, an allegation Ukraine has denied. According to the United Nations, over 10,000 civilians have been killed in the conflict over the past year.
While Trump and Putin’s discussions offer a glimmer of hope for a ceasefire, deep mistrust between Ukraine and Russia remains a major obstacle. Whether diplomatic pressure and international mediation can bring an end to this bloody war remains uncertain.
