Ukraine Calls for Allied-Backed No-Strike List After Putin’s Energy Ceasefire Pledge Fails

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has dismissed Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s recent claims that Moscow will refrain from striking Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, insisting that words alone are not enough. Zelenskyy called for US oversight and the creation of a formal no-strike list to ensure compliance, speaking alongside Finnish President Alexander Stubb at a press conference on March 19

Zelenskyy pointed out that despite Putin’s assurances, Russia has launched 145 drone attacks, four S-300 missiles, and two Iskander ballistic missiles since then.

Zelenskyy proposed a concrete mechanism to prevent attacks on civilian and critical infrastructure. Ukraine, he said, is ready to draft a list of key sites that must not be targeted and submit it to international partners.

He also suggested a reciprocal arrangement, under which Ukraine would refrain from striking Russian targets if Moscow upholds the no-strike agreement.

“If the Russians stop attacking our sites, we will absolutely not target theirs,” Zelenskyy affirmed.

Previously, on the night of March 18 to 19, hours after Russian leader Vladimir Putin spoke of Russia’s commitment to a “peaceful resolution” during his call with Donald Trump, Ukrainian cities once again came under attack. One of the Russian drones hit a Ukrainian hospital in Sumy.

More than 140 drones targeted multiple regions of Ukraine. Ukrainian air defense systems were active throughout the night, but several drones struck civilian infrastructure. One of the most serious incidents was a direct hit on a hospital in Sumy.

Earlier, Zelenskyy stated that any potential peace talks with Russia must begin with an unconditional ceasefire before moving on to more complex issues.