Russian President Vladimir Putin has responded to Trump’s urgent appeal to spare the lives of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers currently encircled by Russian forces in the Kursk region.
On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed “in principle” to a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine.
The move, which could mark a significant step toward ending the drawn-out and costly war, came with Putin’s cautious but measured response: discussions with the U.S. must continue, and critically, a call with President Trump should be on the table.
On Friday, Trump took to Truth Social, stating:
“We had very good and productive discussions with President Vladimir Putin of Russia yesterday, and there is a very good chance that this horrible, bloody war can finally come to an end — BUT, AT THIS VERY MOMENT, THOUSANDS OF UKRAINIAN TROOPS ARE COMPLETELY SURROUNDED BY THE RUSSIAN MILITARY, AND IN A VERY BAD AND VULNERABLE POSITION. I have strongly requested to President Putin that their lives be spared. This would be a horrible massacre, one not seen since World War II. God bless them all!!!”
Read more:
Trump Urges Putin to Spare Ukrainian Soldiers in Kursk, Warns of ‘Horrible Massacre’
Putin acknowledged Trump’s plea, but made it clear that his military’s actions are a direct response to what he called “Ukrainian militants’ numerous crimes against civilians.”
While the Kremlin officially classifies these actions as “terrorism,” Putin nonetheless extended a conditional offer of mercy, provided that Ukrainian troops surrender their arms.
Putin said:
“We have read today’s appeal from President Trump to spare the lives of servicemen of the Ukrainian Army in the Kursk region. In this regard, please note that Ukrainian militants have committed numerous crimes against civilians.
These acts, as I have already stated, are classified by us as terrorism. At the same time, we are sympathetic to President Trump’s call to be guided by humanitarian considerations regarding these servicemen.
In this regard, I emphasize that if they lay down their arms and surrender, they will be guaranteed life and dignified treatment.
To effectively implement President Trump’s call, there must be an appropriate order from the military and political leadership of Ukraine to its troops to lay down their arms and surrender.”
WATCH:
⚡️ BREAKING: President Putin responded to President Trump regarding his appeal to spare Ukrainian soldiers in the Kursk region:
“We have read today’s appeal from President Trump to spare the lives of servicemen of the Ukrainian Army in the Kursk region. In this regard, please… pic.twitter.com/RmmbqO1oS3
— Russia is not Enemy (@RussiaIsntEnemy) March 14, 2025