**US President Trump Urges Putin to Spare Ukrainian Troops**
US President Donald Trump has asked Russian President Vladimir Putin to spare thousands of Ukrainian troops who are surrounded by the Russian military. In a post on his Truth Social account, Trump said that the Ukrainian troops were in a “bad and vulnerable position” and that their lives should be spared.
**Russia Prepares for Ceasefire**
Just a day before Trump’s request, Putin had announced that Russia was ready to accept a 30-day ceasefire backed by the US. However, he made it clear that Ukraine would have to stop mobilization, military training, and foreign aid deliveries during this time.
**Breakthrough in Kursk Oblast**
Putin also mentioned Russia’s breakthrough in Kursk Oblast, claiming that over 86% of seized territories had been retaken, including a key town. However, Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi acknowledged the difficult situation in the region and said that Ukraine would hold its defenses “as long as reasonable and necessary”.
**US Envoy Arrives in Moscow**
Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, arrived in Moscow on March 13 and met with Putin late in the evening. This comes as the US seeks Russian approval for a ceasefire.