Ukraine has expressed its willingness to accept a 30-day ceasefire with Russia. This offer was made during recent talks between US and Ukrainian leaders in Saudi Arabia. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned he would present this proposal to Russia, stating that the decision now rests with them.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that it’s up to the US to persuade Russia to agree to this positive step forward. The meeting in Jeddah marked the first official dialogue between the two nations since a notable disagreement between Zelensky and former President Donald Trump in the Oval Office.
In their joint statement, the US announced the revival of intelligence sharing and security support for Ukraine, which had been halted after the tense meeting. Both countries agreed to form negotiating teams to work towards a lasting peace and ensure Ukraine’s long-term safety.
Rubio expressed hope that Russia would accept the ceasefire offer. He mentioned, “We are ready to stop shooting and start talking.” If Russia refuses, it would reveal the obstacles to peace. He also conveyed that both nations made a promising offer to start negotiations immediately.
This proposed 30-day ceasefire expands beyond Zelensky’s earlier suggestion for a limited truce in the air and at sea. Zelensky acknowledged the constructive nature of the talks in Jeddah, urging Russia to demonstrate its commitment to ending the conflict. He stated, “Now is the time for full transparency.”
As of now, Russia has not responded publicly. The Kremlin indicated it would issue a statement once it received information from the US about the talks. Since its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Russia currently occupies around 20% of Ukrainian territory.
During a press briefing, Trump expressed optimism that President Putin might agree to the proposed ceasefire. He remarked that both sides need to cooperate to find peace, hoping discussions could progress in the coming days. Trump also mentioned being open to further meetings with Zelensky in Washington.
Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova mentioned that Moscow has not dismissed the idea of talks with US representatives. Rubio noted that while the interactions between Trump and Zelensky might seem dramatic, the reality of war remains urgent and tragic, with lives lost daily.
While negotiations continue, conflict persists on the ground. Just recently, Moscow suffered casualties in a significant drone attack, which Russia attributed to Ukraine’s rejection of diplomatic efforts. Ukrainian sources reported drone strikes across several cities, including Kyiv, with air defenses successful in intercepting many attacks.
As the war continues, both nations grapple with the complexities of finding a peaceful resolution, aiming to resume discussions and end hostilities.
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