Russian Forces Gain Ground in Ukraine Amid Rejected Ceasefire Proposal

Russian forces have made significant gains in Ukraine, particularly in the south, following President Vladimir Putin’s rejection of a complete ceasefire proposal. Despite this, US President Donald Trump remains optimistic, claiming that Russian forces have encircled approximately 2,500 Ukrainian soldiers.

Putin rejected the ceasefire proposal, citing concerns over monitoring and enforcing the agreement along the 2,000km Russian-Ukrainian border. Instead, Putin agreed to a partial ceasefire, halting long-range aerial attacks on power stations and general infrastructure, as well as long-range naval attacks in the Black Sea.

This development comes as Russian forces recaptured the city of Sudzha on March 13, pushing Ukrainian forces almost to the border. Russian forces also entered the village of Stepove in western Zaporizhia, complicating local Ukrainian logistics.

Ukrainian officials have denied Putin’s claims that Ukrainian forces in Kursk are encircled, calling the reports “false and fabricated” for political manipulation. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces are preparing for increased mechanized attacks from Russian forces as spring weather improves ground conditions.

Key points from the situation include:

Partial Ceasefire Agreement: Putin agreed to halt long-range aerial and naval attacks, but rejected a complete ceasefire proposal.
Russian Gains in Ukraine: Russian forces recaptured Sudzha and entered Stepove, gaining ground in southern Ukraine.
Ukrainian Denial of Encirclement: Ukrainian officials denied Putin’s claims of encirclement, calling them “false and fabricated”.
Preparing for Increased Attacks: Ukrainian forces are preparing for increased mechanized attacks from Russian forces as spring weather improves ground conditions.