Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that many aspects of a potential peace deal still require negotiation, including issues related to the Black Sea.

The Biden administration has supplied Ukraine with over 40 HIMARS systems and ammunition, despite previous criticisms from former President Donald Trump regarding military aid.

On March 24, 2025, Ukrainian forces successfully destroyed four Russian helicopters, including two Ka-52 attack helicopters, using HIMARS rockets in Russia's Belgorod region.

This military action coincided with ongoing peace talks in Saudi Arabia, where US and Ukrainian officials are discussing a potential partial ceasefire.

On the same day, a separate Russian missile attack on Sumy injured 88 individuals, including 17 children, highlighting the ongoing threat to civilian areas.

Experts remain skeptical about Russia's genuine interest in a ceasefire, as hostilities continue with drone and missile strikes against Ukrainian cities.

The next round of talks in Saudi Arabia, involving Ukrainian and US delegations, is scheduled for March 25, focusing on ensuring safety in the Black Sea for shipping.

Ukraine's foreign minister condemned Russia for its persistent attacks on civilians and called for an end to the war rather than mere 'hollow statements about peace'.

The strikes utilized the M142 HIMARS system, employing M30A2 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System Alternative Warhead ammunition, capable of hitting targets over 40 miles away.

The helicopter strikes were conducted by Ukraine's Special Operations Forces in coordination with military intelligence, targeting a hidden staging area used by Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed a desire to protect additional infrastructure, such as railways and ports, amid the ongoing conflict.

Despite these negotiations, as of March 24, no ceasefire agreement had been reached between Russia and Ukraine.