Ukraine has announced its readiness to accept an immediate 30-day ceasefire with Russia, following talks with the United States in Saudi Arabia. The US proposal aims to pause hostilities and initiate peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.
US Proposes Ceasefire, Ukraine Agrees
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the offer would be presented to Russia, emphasizing that “the ball is in their court.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed optimism, stating that it is now up to the US to convince Russia to accept this “positive” step towards peace.
Tuesday’s discussions in Jeddah marked the first formal meeting between Ukraine and the US since the controversial Oval Office exchange between Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump. Both countries released a joint statement committing to resuming intelligence sharing and security assistance, which had previously been suspended.
Path Toward Peace Negotiations
The US-Ukraine statement also confirmed that both nations would appoint official negotiating teams and immediately begin discussions to establish a lasting peace and long-term security for Ukraine.
Rubio, speaking at a press conference in Jeddah, stressed that Ukraine was “ready to stop shooting and start talking.” He warned that if Russia rejected the offer, it would indicate who was obstructing peace.
“We made an offer that Ukraine has accepted—a ceasefire leading to immediate negotiations. Now, we present this to Russia, hoping they will choose peace. The decision is theirs,” Rubio added.
Beyond a Partial Truce
The proposed 30-day ceasefire surpasses Zelensky’s earlier suggestion of a partial truce that would have focused only on maritime and aerial operations. Instead, it calls for a comprehensive halt to all hostilities for a month.
Zelensky expressed gratitude for what he described as “constructive” talks in Jeddah. In a video message, he urged Russia to demonstrate its willingness to either stop or continue the war. “It is time for the full truth,” he said.
Awaiting Russia’s Response
Moscow has yet to respond to the ceasefire proposal. The Kremlin stated that it would release an official statement once briefed by Washington on the discussions.
Since launching a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has taken control of approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory. While tensions remain high, global attention is now on Russia’s next move.
At the White House, Trump expressed hope that President Vladimir Putin would accept the ceasefire, stating, “It takes two to tango.” He added that the US and Russia had a significant meeting planned, with expectations of productive conversations.
Next Steps in Diplomacy
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova confirmed that Russia had not ruled out discussions with US representatives in the coming days. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic efforts continuing.
Senator Rubio dismissed questions about the personal dynamics between Trump and Zelensky, instead urging focus on the broader goal of peace.
“This isn’t a reality show. Lives are being lost every day,” Rubio said. “Today, tomorrow, unless we secure a ceasefire, more lives will be lost.”
Drone Attacks and Escalating Tensions
The ceasefire discussions occurred amid heightened tensions, as overnight drone attacks in Moscow reportedly killed at least three people. Russia has cited these attacks as evidence that Ukraine is not prioritizing diplomacy.
As the world watches, the fate of the ceasefire proposal now hinges on Russia’s decision. Will Moscow agree to pause the war, or will the conflict continue? The coming days will be crucial in determining the next steps toward peace.
