Ukraine Accepts 30-Day Ceasefire Proposal Amid Renewed U.S. Support

Ukraine accepted a 30-day ceasefire proposal from Trump after U.S. assurances of renewed support. Key challenges remain regarding Russia’s acceptance of the deal, despite international optimism for progress in peace negotiations.

Ukraine has agreed to a 30-day ceasefire proposal from former President Donald Trump during discussions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This development follows commitments from the U.S. to renew intelligence sharing and security support, after previously pausing assistance to pressure Ukraine into peace talks. There is renewed optimism for peace talks, contrasting the last chaotic meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Attending the talks were Andriy Yermak, Ukraine’s chief of staff, and Marco Rubio, Trump’s secretary of state. Following eight hours of negotiations, both sides released a joint statement confirming the ceasefire’s acceptance and the U.S. resumption of intelligence sharing. Zelensky proposed three key measures: halting missile strikes, maintaining maritime silence, and taking confidence-building steps like releasing prisoners of war and returning Ukrainian children forcibly taken to Russia.

After the ceasefire announcement, Trump expressed hope for a favorable response from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s desire for peace and urged Russia to accept the ceasefire, stating that if Russia agrees, the ceasefire will commence immediately.

Marco Rubio indicated that the U.S. would approach Russia regarding the offer, emphasizing that the next steps depend on Moscow’s response. Despite the ceasefire proposal, Russia launched an air attack on Kyiv shortly afterward, although the Russian Foreign Ministry hinted at the possibility of discussing the proposal with U.S. representatives.

World leaders, including Ursula Von der Leyen and Prime Minister Keir Starmer, reacted positively to the ceasefire proposal, noting that the onus now lies with Russia to end hostilities. They characterized the talks as a significant step towards comprehensive peace and expressed readiness to assist in future negotiations.

The recent agreement on a 30-day ceasefire marks a potential turning point in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. With the U.S. renewing intelligence support and security assistance, leaders are hopeful for genuine negotiations. However, the actual implementation will depend on Russia’s response to the proposal. Continued international support and pressure are vital in pursuing lasting peace.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk