Ukraine Accepts US-Proposed 30-Day Ceasefire with Russia
Ukraine is prepared to accept a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, facilitated by the US. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the offer is now in Russia’s hands. The recent talks in Saudi Arabia mark an important step towards peace negotiations, while continued violence reveals the complexities of achieving a truce.
Ukraine has expressed its readiness to accept a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, a proposal facilitated by the United States following recent discussions in Saudi Arabia. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that he would officially present this offer to Russia, remarking that “the ball is in their court”.
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine indicated that it is now incumbent upon the United States to persuade Russia to accept this constructive proposal. The meetings in Jeddah marked the first formal dialogue between the two nations after the contentious interaction between President Zelensky and US President Donald Trump.
In a shared declaration, the United States committed to reinstating intelligence sharing and security assistance to Ukraine, which had previously been suspended after the aforementioned Oval Office meeting. The joint statement confirmed that both parties will appoint their negotiating teams to commence immediate discussions aimed at securing a durable peace and ensuring Ukraine’s long-term safety.
During a press conference, Rubio reiterated his hope that Russia will agree to the ceasefire offer, signaling, “Ukraine was ready to stop shooting and start talking.” He added that if Russia declines the proposal, it would become clear what is hindering peace. The US delegation expressed a desire for an agreement to foster a cessation of hostilities and immediate negotiations.
This ceasefire proposal extends beyond Zelensky’s original suggestion for a partial truce concerning naval and aerial engagements. Russia has occupied approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory since its full-scale invasion commenced in February 2022.
When questioned about the potential alignment of Trump and Zelensky’s relationship, Rubio replied that he hoped it would be the prospect of “peace” returning to focus. He emphasized the somber reality that casualties continue daily due to the ongoing conflict, underscoring the urgency for a ceasefire.
Recent events included drone strikes in Moscow, resulting in three fatalities, showcasing the complexities of the negotiations. These hosts of drone attacks led Russian authorities to claim that Ukraine is dismissing diplomatic avenues to end the war. Furthermore, discussions regarding a critical minerals deal, previously hindered by political tensions, are anticipated to be finalized soon between the two nations.
The United States team in Jeddah comprised notable officials, including National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. The urgency of concluding the conflict in Ukraine remains a principal commitment for the US administration. President Biden has been exerting pressure on Zelensky to accept a ceasefire despite not providing the immediate security guarantees that Ukraine has prioritized.
Meanwhile, the conflict persists, with casualties reported from both sides amid ongoing drone activities. Russian defense reports indicated interceptions of numerous drones over Moscow, while Ukrainian forces claimed to have downed significant numbers as well. The situation remains fluid as both nations navigate towards a fragile peace.
In conclusion, Ukraine’s readiness to accept a proposed 30-day ceasefire with Russia, alongside US intervention, highlights the continuing quest for peace amidst ongoing hostilities. The discussions in Jeddah illustrate a significant diplomatic effort, with the hope that Russia will respond positively. The urgency for resolution remains critical as casualties continue and broader geopolitical ramifications loom.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
