In a significant development aimed at de-escalating the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has agreed to a US-proposed 30-day ceasefire, pending Russia’s acceptance of the same terms. The announcement came late Tuesday evening following high-level talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between US and Ukrainian officials.
According to a joint statement released after the meeting, Ukraine has expressed its readiness to enact an immediate, interim ceasefire, which could be extended if both parties mutually agree. However, the proposal hinges on Russia’s acceptance and concurrent implementation of the terms.
“Ukraine demonstrated its commitment to peace today,” said Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian president’s office, during a press briefing. “We want a just and lasting peace, and this proposal is a step in that direction.”
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is set to present the proposal to Moscow, emphasized that the ball is now in Russia’s court. “If the Kremlin does not agree to this deal, it will be clear to the world what—or who—is standing in the way of peace,” Rubio stated.
A Shift in Tone and Strategy
The ceasefire proposal marks a notable shift in the tone of US-Ukraine relations, signaling a unified front in the ongoing negotiations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who did not attend the Jeddah talks, released a statement affirming that Washington “understands Ukraine’s arguments and accepts our proposals.”
Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine’s unwavering commitment to peace, stating, “From the first moment of this war, Ukraine has strived for peace. We are ready to do everything possible to achieve it as quickly and reliably as possible—so that there is no more war.”
He added that if Russia agrees to a complete ceasefire—covering not only missile, drone, and bomb attacks but also hostilities along the entire frontline—the silence could take effect immediately.
US Reverses Military Aid Suspension
In a parallel development, the Trump administration announced it would immediately lift its suspension of military support to Ukraine and resume intelligence sharing with Kyiv. This reversal comes just over a week after the measures were imposed, reportedly to pressure Zelenskyy into negotiations that could lead to a peace deal with Russia.
The decision underscores the US’s renewed commitment to supporting Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. However, it also raises questions about the broader geopolitical implications and the potential for further diplomatic maneuvering.
Economic Cooperation on the Horizon
Beyond the ceasefire, officials from both countries also discussed the possibility of reaching an agreement on critical raw minerals. According to the post-meeting statement, such a deal is to be finalized “as soon as possible,” highlighting the strategic importance of economic cooperation in the region.