Russia reacts to Putin-Trump phone call aftermath

On March 18, Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump held a phone conversation that lasted more than two hours. The two leaders exchanged views on ending the Ukrainian conflict. One of the practical outcomes was Putin’s agreement to the White House leader’s proposal for a mutual 30-day halt in strikes on energy infrastructure by both Moscow and Kyiv. Federation Council and State Duma Declare Diplomacy is Back Konstantin Kosachev, Deputy Speaker of the Federation Council, assessed the results of the phone call on his Telegram channel, calling it an undeniable step forward, as both sides appear to be focused on results. "The main impression – it's a dialogue, not just two monologues. And not in the format that was being imposed on us: 'either accept our terms, or you are responsible for all consequences.' Russia didn't fall for that, but neither did America take a meaningless path… There were no ultimatums like those from Europe, saying Russia must accept a 30-day ceasefire plan or be deemed against peace."