Ukraine update 24 March 2025

US negotiators are working with Russian representatives on a proposed partial ceasefire in Ukraine. Monday's meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, came a day after the US held separate talks with the Ukrainian team. Moscow and Kyiv have accused each other of undermining efforts to reach a pause in the 3-year-old war. Both countries agreed in principle Wednesday to a limited ceasefire after US President Donald Trump spoke with their leaders. A major sticking point is what targets would be off-limits to strike.

Austrian authorities uncovered a Russian-steered disinformation campaign about Ukraine after detaining a Bulgarian woman accused of espionage for Russia.
The investigation found that a Russian intelligence cell planned a disinformation campaign in German-speaking countries, particularly Austria, soon after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, according to the Interior Ministry.
The Bulgarian suspect reportedly played a significant role in the disinformation effort and has admitted to working for the cell, as stated by the ministry.

In his address on March 24, 2025, President Zelenskyy began by highlighting the ongoing rescue operation in Sumy following an attack that injured nearly 90 people, including 17 children, with a school and residential buildings being the epicenter. He expressed gratitude to the emergency services and everyone involved in saving lives.

President Zelenskyy emphasized that the war, brought by Russia, continues to cause loss, pain, and destruction. He stated that the war must be pushed back to Russia, and Russia must be forced into peace and pressured to ensure security. He thanked those supporting Ukraine's security and defense.

A Staff meeting was held to discuss the training of Ukrainian warriors, including its modernization and the implementation of modern methodologies, as reported by General Oleh Apostol. The meeting also covered training programs, psychological and information support, and cooperation with partners, noting some issues that need attention. Furthermore, the 18-24 contract program was reviewed with positive initial results, and plans are in place to expand it to more brigades and extend this experience to the National Guard and Border Guard units to enhance the potential and resilience of all effective Defense Forces units.

Regarding diplomatic efforts, President Zelenskyy mentioned recent discussions with Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and a meeting with the US team. US representatives also spoke with Russian representatives, followed by a meeting between the Ukrainian and American teams, with a new report expected. The goal is to achieve real peace and guaranteed security for Ukraine, Europe, America, and the world.

President Zelenskyy asserted that Russia is the sole actor prolonging the war and disregarding both the Ukrainian people and the global community. He stressed the need for strong moves and actions to pressure Russia to want to end the war, which includes sanctions, support for Ukraine, and international coordination. This week, Ukraine is preparing significant joint security steps with its European partners, noting that a large part of Europe is ready for concrete security work.

In conclusion, President Zelenskyy thanked everyone who stands with Ukraine.