Thu Mar 20 19:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Zelenskyy Urges Increased Weapon Supplies as US-Led Peace Talks Loom

**Brussels/Oslo, March 21, 2025** – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy intensified calls for increased weapon supplies from the EU and continued pressure on Russia during a Thursday address to EU leaders. This comes as US-led peace talks between Ukrainian and Russian officials are scheduled for Monday in Saudi Arabia.

Zelenskyy reported a new Russian attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, despite a recent agreement between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump to halt such attacks. He accused Putin of prolonging the war with unnecessary demands and urged the EU to bolster arms deliveries and maintain sanctions.

While both Zelenskyy and Putin have indicated a willingness to halt energy infrastructure attacks for 30 days, fighting continues with both sides reporting numerous drone strikes.

Trump’s overtures to Putin have raised concerns among European and NATO allies. His suggestion that the US could manage Ukraine’s power plants was rejected by Zelenskyy, who cited legal impediments concerning the occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Putin has made an end to Western military support for Ukraine a condition for a long-term truce.

Meanwhile, a meeting of 30 military leaders near London focused on translating political intentions into concrete security guarantees for Ukraine. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer reported progress, indicating plans are developing for various forms of security assistance. However, Russia’s rejection of NATO troops in Ukraine and uncertainty over US involvement remain key obstacles.

Despite Trump’s shift, the US is considering further air defense systems for Ukraine. The EU is pushing for the delivery of two million shells to Ukraine, but progress on this front remains stalled. Zelenskyy also requested US-made Patriot missile systems from Trump.

The Kremlin expressed skepticism about Europe’s commitment to ending the conflict, citing increased European defense spending as evidence of militarization. Both Ukraine and Russia reported heavy overnight drone activity, resulting in casualties on both sides.

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