Russian President Vladimir Putin has set a significant condition ahead of his upcoming phone call with US President Donald Trump regarding a proposed ceasefire in Ukraine. He is demanding a suspension of all arms shipments to Ukraine during the truce period, a request that aligns with previous discussions held between the two leaders' representatives. The conditions surrounding the ceasefire indicate the strategic leverage Putin seeks to establish in negotiations, as he aims to halt Western military support for Ukraine, particularly from the United States.

The anticipated call on March 18 is positioned as a critical moment for peace discussions, with both sides reportedly aiming for a 30-day ceasefire, a proposal that Ukraine has already shown willingness to accept. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has communicated the expected timing of the call, creating a sense of urgency around the proposed peace talks. The dialogue comes at a time when the conflict has reached a critical juncture, and any agreement has the potential to impact the ongoing hostilities significantly.

Putin's insistence on a halt to arms shipments highlights Russia's ongoing strategy to minimize military support for Ukraine while negotiating terms of engagement. Observers note that the Kremlin's pressure through such conditions reflects a broader geopolitical maneuvering, as Russia tries to capitalize on the situation to weaken Ukraine's defense capabilities. This development not only impacts Russia-Ukraine relations but also involves the United States' role in European security and influences future diplomatic efforts in the region.