**US President Trump Speaks on Russia’s Intentions**
US President Donald Trump has expressed doubts about Russia’s intentions to end the war in Ukraine. Speaking to Newsmax on March 25, Trump said, “I don’t know” if Russia wants to see an end to the full-scale war. However, he added that it could be that they are “dragging their feet.”
**Ceasefire Talks**
A partial ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine was brokered by the US, with a focus on naval operations and strikes against energy facilities. President Volodymyr Zelensky said the ceasefire would take effect on March 25, but the Kremlin claimed that it would only come into force after Western sanctions are lifted.
**Russia’s Motives**
According to sources, Russia is deliberately prolonging peace talks to gain more territory and strengthen its negotiating position with the US. A U.S. intelligence assessment concurred that both Moscow and Kyiv may see a greater incentive to prolong the war instead of settling for an unfavorable peace deal.
**Casualties and Resistance**
The number of Russian casualties in just over a day has been reported at 1,280. CIA Director John Ratcliffe said that the Ukrainian resistance, people, and military have been underestimated for several years now.
**US Sanctions and Peace Talks**
The US is “looking at” lifting additional sanctions on Russia to secure a Black Sea ceasefire agreement. However, President Zelensky expressed concerns about Russia’s intentions and manipulation of agreements.
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