After high-level talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Ukraine has signaled its readiness to accept a US-proposed ceasefire deal aimed at providing temporary relief in its war with Russia. However, the deal’s implementation now hinges on Moscow’s agreement.
Key Terms of the Ceasefire Proposal
The proposed agreement calls for an immediate 30-day ceasefire covering all active battlefronts—land, air, and sea. The arrangement is designed to be extendable upon mutual consent and includes the resumption of US military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine. Importantly, the deal does not address territorial concessions, a long-standing sticking point in previous negotiations, where Ukraine has demanded the return of occupied territories.
Reactions from Ukraine and the US
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Kyiv is prepared to take this step, stating, “We are ready to take this step,” but stressed that it will only work if Russia agrees. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio added, “The ball is now in Russia’s court.” US President Donald Trump echoed the sentiment, affirming his commitment to ending the war, “We want to get the Ukraine war over with.”
Humanitarian Measures and Economic Support
In addition to halting military operations, the joint statement outlining the ceasefire includes several humanitarian provisions:
- Prisoner Exchange and Civilian Release: Measures to swap prisoners of war and release detained civilians.
- Repatriation of Ukrainian Children: Steps to return Ukrainian children forcibly relocated to Russia.
- Economic Stability Initiatives: A revival of a critical deal concerning Ukraine’s mineral and rare earth resources, aimed at bolstering the nation’s long-term economic security.
European partners also play a role in the peace process, with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte scheduled to visit the White House later this week.
Russia’s Position and the Road Ahead
Russia has yet to formally respond to the ceasefire proposal. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has previously criticized Zelenskyy for refusing to negotiate unless the US provides nuclear deterrence assurances. The Kremlin insists that any ceasefire must secure Russia’s long-term security interests, and demands that Ukraine withdraw from four regions claimed by Russia.
Adding to the complexity, late on Monday, Russia launched air strikes on Kyiv. Moscow claimed it downed 343 drones fired by Ukraine, including 91 aimed at the Moscow region, underscoring that the battlefield remains highly volatile despite diplomatic overtures.
Implications for the Russia-Ukraine War
The proposed ceasefire could mark a significant diplomatic turning point by reopening channels for US military aid and potentially stabilizing Ukraine in the short term. However, many analysts caution that a temporary truce might simply allow both sides to regroup, rather than establishing a foundation for lasting peace. With fresh offensives and continuing casualties on the battlefield, Ukraine’s security guarantees post-ceasefire remain a major concern.
As US and Ukrainian officials gear up for further discussions—with Trump’s National Security Advisor expected to meet his Russian counterpart and a US special envoy slated for Moscow—the outcome of this proposal could have far-reaching implications for the future of the conflict.
