KYIV, Ukraine – Ukraine has expressed its readiness to agree to an immediate 30-day ceasefire with Russia as proposed by the US, following a day of negotiations between US and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia. US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, announced that he would present the ceasefire offer to Russia, emphasizing that the decision now lies with the Russian government. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky indicated that it is now up to the US to persuade Russia to accept the “positive” proposal.
During the talks in Jeddah, the first official meeting between the two countries since the contentious clash between Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump, the US also pledged to resume intelligence sharing and security assistance to Ukraine. This assistance had been previously suspended after the public dispute at the White House. Both sides agreed to establish negotiating teams promptly and commence discussions aimed at establishing a lasting peace for Ukraine’s long-term security.
Rubio expressed optimism that Russia would accept the ceasefire proposal, indicating that Ukraine is prepared to halt military actions and engage in diplomatic negotiations. He urged Russia to embrace the opportunity for peace, stressing that the decision is now in Russia’s hands. Zelensky thanked Trump for the constructive talks in Jeddah and emphasized the importance of Russia demonstrating willingness to end the conflict.
The offer of a 30-day ceasefire surpasses Zelensky’s initial proposal for a limited truce in specific areas. Zelensky underscored the urgent need for Russia to either halt the war or continue the hostilities, calling for transparency and a commitment to peace. However, the Kremlin has not yet publicly responded to the ceasefire proposal, stating that any potential agreements would be made on their terms, not based on American demands.
In response to the ongoing conflict, Trump expressed hope for fruitful discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He emphasized the necessity of both parties agreeing to the proposed ceasefire, underscoring the significance of diplomatic efforts in ending the war. The US and Ukrainian teams met following drone attacks near Moscow that resulted in casualties, indicating a continued escalation of violence in the region.
As the conflict persists, efforts to reach a swift resolution have intensified, with the US placing pressure on Zelensky to accept a ceasefire. The European Union has expressed support for the recent developments in the negotiations, highlighting a potential shift in America’s approach to the war. Despite ongoing hostilities on the ground, leaders are striving to navigate the complexities of the conflict and find a path towards lasting peace and stability in the region.