US-Ukraine Ceasefire Proposal: Possible Demands from Russia
A US-Ukraine ceasefire proposal for a 30-day period has emerged from talks in Jeddah, primarily focused on humanitarian efforts, but lacks provisions on sanctions and military troop withdrawal. Russia’s acceptance is doubtful, with potential demands including lifting sanctions and troop withdrawal from Kursk, reflecting the complexity of negotiations in the ongoing conflict.
The US and Ukraine have proposed a ceasefire lasting 30 days, agreed during talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This deal includes the resumption of US military aid to Ukraine and emphasizes humanitarian efforts like the exchange of prisoners and release of civilian detainees. However, the proposal does not address sanctions on Russia or the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from occupied regions such as Kursk.
Russia’s response is still pending, as Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated they would review the proposal before making decisions. Analysts are skeptical about Russia accepting the terms without additional demands, noting that historically, Russia would not agree to such propositions without securing concessions first.
Experts suggest that Russia could request the lifting of sanctions imposed by the US and its allies, which have numbered over 21,692 since the war began. These sanctions affect various sectors including military, energy, and telecommunications. A sanctions lift would enable Russia to consolidate its position and prepare for future military actions.
Moreover, analysts speculate that Russia might insist on the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Kursk, aimed at regaining lost ground and limiting Ukraine’s negotiating power. This would further complicate the peace process unless both sides reach an agreement that addresses these essential conditions.
US support for any Russian demands is anticipated, as analysts believe the US may favor a proposal that aligns with Russia’s strategic interests. This situation reflects a broader dynamic where Ukraine’s influence in negotiations may be compromised by external powers dictating terms.
The proposed 30-day ceasefire between the US and Ukraine highlights key humanitarian concerns while raising questions about Russia’s potential demands. Analysts suggest that Russia is unlikely to accept the ceasefire without negotiating sanctions relief and the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from discussed areas. The response from the Kremlin remains crucial in determining the next steps for both the US and Ukraine in navigating this complex geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
