Ukraine has expressed willingness to accept a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, proposed by the US after recent talks. The US will resume intelligence sharing with Ukraine, as both nations prepare for negotiations to ensure lasting peace. The situation remains tense, with ongoing military operations highlighting the urgency for a resolution.
Ukraine is reportedly prepared to accept a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, a proposal extended by the United States following discussions held in Saudi Arabia. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that he would convey this offer to Russia, stating, “the ball is in their court.” President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine indicated that the responsibility now lies with the United States to persuade Russia to accept this favorable proposition.
The meeting in Jeddah marked the first formal engagement between US and Ukrainian officials since a tense exchange between President Zelensky and former President Donald Trump. A joint statement from the US highlighted a commitment to resume intelligence sharing and security support to Ukraine, which had been paused after the unusual previous meeting. Both parties agreed to establish their respective negotiation teams and promptly initiate talks aimed at achieving a stable peace that ensures long-term security for Ukraine.
During a press briefing, Rubio expressed optimism that Russia might accept the ceasefire proposal. He reiterated that Ukraine was ready to engage in dialogue, stating, “Today we made an offer that the Ukrainians have accepted.” If Russia declines, he noted that it would clarify the impediments to peace. The proposed ceasefire is notably broader than Zelensky’s earlier suggestion of a limited truce in specific areas.
Since launching its extensive invasion in February 2022, Russia has occupied approximately 20% of Ukraine’s territory. When asked about the status of relations between Trump and Zelensky, Rubio commented that he hoped the focus would be on restoring peace, as he expressed concern over the ongoing casualties from the conflict.
The US-Ukrainian discussions were conducted amid reports of deadly drone strikes in Moscow, which the Russian government attributed to Ukraine’s refusal to engage in diplomatic solutions. In addition to ceasefire talks, both leaders aim to finalize a critical minerals agreement, granting the US access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals in return for security assurances, a matter complicated by previous tensions involving the White House.
The US delegation, which included national security advisor Mike Waltz and envoy Steve Witkoff, is set to travel to Russia soon for further negotiations. President Trump has consistently advocated for a swift resolution to the conflict and has recently threatened additional sanctions against Russia in response to its military actions, highlighting the urgency of establishing a ceasefire amid ongoing violence.
In summary, Ukraine’s readiness to accept a 30-day ceasefire with Russia showcases a significant diplomatic development facilitated by the United States. As discussions progress, the focus shifts to Russia’s response and the broader implications for peace in the region. Ongoing military actions and prior diplomatic tensions underscore the complexities involved in reaching a sustainable resolution. With the US reiterating its commitments to Ukraine, the path towards negotiation remains critical to achieving stability in the area.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
