**US and Ukraine Presidents Talk Amid Ongoing War**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone call with US President Donald Trump on March 19. The conversation lasted about an hour.
After the call, Trump said it was “very good” and that they discussed Ukraine’s requests and needs in relation to Russia. This talk came after Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin the day before.
**Russia Demands Changes from Ukraine**
During his earlier call with Putin, Trump learned that Russia wants the US to stop sending military aid and intelligence to Ukraine. They also want Ukraine to stop rearming its military and halt mobilization efforts.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha previously stated three conditions for negotiations with Russia. These include allowing Ukraine to defend itself freely.
**Prisoner Exchange and Ceasefire**
Putin said that a prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia would happen on March 19, as well as the release of over 23 seriously wounded Ukrainian soldiers. A ceasefire on energy infrastructure was also promised by Putin, but it didn’t last long.
Hours after the agreement, drones hit Kyiv. Zelensky described this situation as “very different from reality.”