Ukraine and the United States Reach Agreement on 30-Day Ceasefire Proposal
Joint statement confirms the resumption of military aid to Ukraine and outlines terms for a potential ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
The United States and Ukraine have formalized an agreement proposing a 30-day ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Russia, following discussions held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
The decision marks a significant shift in the dynamics of international involvement in the conflict and was announced in a joint statement by both governments.
According to the statement, Ukraine has agreed to accept a U.S.-proposed ceasefire, which is set to become effective once Russia consents.
The initial duration of the ceasefire is outlined as thirty days, with a possibility for extension contingent upon mutual agreement by the involved parties.
In conjunction with this announcement, the U.S. has committed to lifting a previous pause on intelligence sharing and to resuming military assistance to Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was present in Saudi Arabia but did not engage in direct negotiations, described the ceasefire as a 'positive proposal.' He emphasized that the ceasefire would encompass not only combat operations in the air and sea but also along the front lines, which has been a pivotal area of the conflict.
In his remarks, Zelenskyy indicated that the period of silence would allow for preparations with international partners regarding various aspects focused on achieving reliable peace and long-term security.
Ukraine has been actively seeking security guarantees from its allies, a topic that was reportedly discussed during the talks, although specifics were not disclosed.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, addressing the media after the discussions, indicated that the U.S. intends to present the ceasefire proposal to Russia.
He expressed hope for a swift response from Moscow, stating, 'The ball is now in their court.' Rubio affirmed the U.S. goal of reaching a comprehensive agreement involving both Russia and Ukraine as quickly as possible.
This plan is expected to be communicated to Russian officials through multiple diplomatic channels.
High-level meetings are anticipated, including a session between Trump’s national security adviser and his Russian counterpart, while special envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to visit Moscow to engage with President Vladimir Putin.
Responses from global leaders have been mixed but largely supportive.
French President Emmanuel Macron praised the progress made in the Jeddah talks but stressed the necessity of robust security guarantees for Ukraine.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer referred to the agreement as a 'remarkable breakthrough,' while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni remarked that the final decision regarding the ceasefire rests with Russia.
In Poland, Prime Minister Donald Tusk commended the United States and Ukraine for taking an 'important step towards peace,' reflecting his country’s historical ties to the conflict and its support for Ukraine's sovereignty.
This recent development follows a turbulent period in U.S.-Ukraine relations, encountering various setbacks, including contentious meetings between leaders in the past months.
The upcoming events could play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of the conflict and the involvement of international stakeholders.