Ukraine Accepts US Proposed 30-Day Ceasefire with Russia
Ukraine is ready to accept a 30-day ceasefire with Russia as proposed by the US in talks held in Saudi Arabia. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated he would present the proposal to Russia, emphasizing that they are now responsible for the decision. This is a critical moment for potential peace negotiations following Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
Ukraine has expressed its readiness to accept a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, a proposal put forth by the United States following negotiations in Saudi Arabia. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated he would present the offer to Russia, emphasizing that the decision now rests with them. President Volodomyr Zelensky noted it is incumbent upon the US to persuade Russia to accept this favorable proposal.
The talks in Jeddah marked the first official engagement since the contentious encounter between Zelensky and former President Donald Trump. A joint statement from the US highlighted a commitment to resume intelligence sharing and security assistance to Ukraine, which had been halted after the earlier meeting. Negotiating teams from both nations have been tasked with initiating discussions aimed at long-term peace and security for Ukraine.
During a press conference, Rubio expressed hope that Russia would accept the ceasefire proposal, stating, “Ukraine was ‘ready to stop shooting and start talking.'” If Russia declines, he noted, it would clarify the barriers to achieving peace. He reiterated, “Today we made an offer that the Ukrainians have accepted… The ball is now in their court.”
This ceasefire proposal is more comprehensive than Zelensky’s prior suggestion for a limited truce in specific areas. Since February 2022, Russia has held approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory following its invasion. In response to questions about the diplomatic relationship between Trump and Zelensky, Rubio commented that the focus should be on restoring peace rather than personal relations.
Recent drone strikes in Moscow, which resulted in fatalities, were cited by Russia as evidence that Ukraine is rejecting diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. During the meeting, Trump and Zelensky agreed to expedite negotiations on a minerals deal, although this was not a primary topic of discussion.
The US delegation included national security advisor Mike Waltz and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, who is set to visit Russia soon. Achieving a quick resolution to the war remains a critical aim for the US president, who has urged Zelensky to consider the ceasefire without the immediate security assurances he demands.
On Friday, Trump signaled the possibility of additional sanctions against Moscow in response to ongoing aggression in Ukraine. The situation remains tense on the ground, with casualties reported from drone attacks in both Russian and Ukrainian territories, highlighting the ongoing conflict.—
In summary, Ukraine’s acceptance of a proposed 30-day ceasefire with Russia represents a significant diplomatic step amid ongoing hostilities. The involvement of the US underscores the international dimension of the conflict, with increased pressure on both parties to seek peace. Ceasefire discussions are ongoing, while the potential for further sanctions against Russia looms amidst continued military actions.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
