Following nine hours of talks in Saudi Arabia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed readiness to support a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, contingent on US efforts to persuade Moscow to agree. The US-proposed deal, discussed during a meeting between US and Ukrainian officials in Jeddah, includes several key elements aimed at de-escalating the conflict and laying the groundwork for potential peace negotiations.
Key Components of the Ceasefire Deal:
- 30-Day Ceasefire:
The US and Ukraine have agreed to an immediate 30-day ceasefire, which could be extended if both sides mutually agree. The ceasefire would apply across the entire front line, including areas of active combat and the Black Sea region. - Restoration of US Aid:
The US has committed to lifting its pause on military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, a move that Zelenskyy welcomed as a critical step in strengthening Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. - Humanitarian Measures:
The deal includes provisions for the exchange of prisoners of war, the release of civilian detainees, and the return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred to Russia. These measures aim to address humanitarian concerns and build confidence between the warring parties. - Economic Cooperation:
The US and Ukraine discussed accelerating a deal on Ukraine’s minerals and rare earths, which are seen as strategically important for both countries. - No Territorial Concessions:
The joint statement does not mention territorial concessions, a contentious issue given Ukraine’s insistence on reclaiming occupied lands and previous US suggestions that Kyiv might need to compromise on territory.
Reactions:
- Ukraine:
Zelenskyy described the talks as constructive and thanked US President Donald Trump for his engagement. Ukrainian officials, including Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, viewed the meeting as a positive step toward peace and strengthening US-Ukraine relations. However, Ukrainian MP Lesia Vasylenko expressed skepticism about Russia’s willingness to adhere to a ceasefire, citing past violations. - US:
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the “ball is now in Russia’s court,” emphasizing that Ukraine has agreed to stop hostilities and begin talks. President Trump expressed hope that Russia would agree to the ceasefire, warning Vladimir Putin that “it takes two to tango.” - Russia:
Moscow has yet to formally respond to the proposal, though Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov previously accused Zelenskyy of being unwilling to pursue peace, claiming the Ukrainian president sought US assurances of nuclear support.
Next Steps:
The US plans to present the ceasefire proposal to Russia in the coming days, with hopes of securing Moscow’s agreement. If Russia consents, the ceasefire could pave the way for broader peace negotiations. However, the success of the deal hinges on Russia’s willingness to engage in good faith, a prospect that remains uncertain given the ongoing hostilities and deep mistrust between the parties.
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