Ukraine indicates readiness for a 30-day ceasefire with Russia following US proposal; discussions in Saudi Arabia aim to facilitate peace and security arrangements. The US reinstates intelligence sharing and urges Russia’s acceptance of the ceasefire.
Ukraine has signaled its readiness to accept a proposed 30-day ceasefire with Russia, as suggested by the United States following discussions in Saudi Arabia. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced he would present the ceasefire proposal to Russia, emphasizing that the responsibility now lies with them to respond. President Volodymyr Zelensky indicated that the United States must persuade Russia to accept this promising initiative.
The talks held in Jeddah marked the first official engagement between the two nations following the contentious exchange between Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump. A joint statement revealed that the US would restart intelligence sharing and security aid, which had been paused after the extraordinary encounter. Both parties have committed to establishing negotiating teams to pursue a peaceful resolution ensuring Ukraine’s long-term security.
During a press conference, Rubio expressed optimism regarding Russia’s acceptance of the ceasefire, asserting Ukraine was “ready to stop shooting and start talking”. He stated that should Russia reject the proposal, it would clarify the obstacles to peace. The ceasefire offer extends beyond Zelensky’s initial suggestions for a limited truce involving air and maritime zones.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Moscow controls roughly 20% of the country. Rubio highlighted the seriousness of the conflict, stressing the ongoing loss of life and the necessity of a ceasefire. Meanwhile, the US and Ukrainian delegations met against the backdrop of drone attacks in Moscow, prompting Russia to claim Ukraine’s lack of commitment to diplomacy.
Additionally, Trump and Zelensky have agreed to expedite discussions on a critical minerals deal, allowing the US access to Ukraine’s rare earth resources in return for security assurances. Although the minerals deal was not explicitly discussed in the Jeddah talks, it has been a subject of negotiation among financial officials.
The delegation from the US, including national security advisor Mike Waltz and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, plans to visit Russia in the upcoming days. Swiftly ending the war in Ukraine remains a priority for the US president, who pressures Zelensky to accept a ceasefire while withholding immediate security guarantees sought by Ukraine. Trump has alluded to potential additional sanctions against Moscow, given the escalating conflict on the battleground, as a means of advancing negotiations.
In summary, Ukraine’s acceptance of a 30-day ceasefire with Russia represents a critical development in efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict. The United States, through Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has taken an active role in persuading Russia to agree to this proposal. As the discussions progress amid continued hostilities, the focus remains on achieving a sustainable peace while ensuring Ukraine’s security needs are addressed.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
