Ukraine agreed to a U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire and committed to immediate negotiations with Russia. The talks took place in Jeddah on Tuesday after three years of relentless conflict.
U.S. Lifts Military Aid Freeze
Ukraine’s decision led the Trump administration to unfreeze military aid. This move raised hopes among officials that the war might finally come to an end.
Moscow Responds with Airstrikes
Hours after Ukraine announced its acceptance of a temporary ceasefire, Russia launched an air assault on Kyiv. According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Digital Transformation, air raid alarms sounded across ten regions, as reported by Russian state-owned news agency RIA. Additionally, missile strikes targeted Kharkiv, a key city in northeastern Ukraine.
Kyiv Defends Against Attacks
Kyiv’s mayor, Vitali Klitschko, confirmed that air defense systems were actively repelling the Russian strikes, according to The Guardian.
Russia Escalates Hostilities
Despite ongoing peace efforts, Russia ramped up attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and reclaimed territory in the Kursk region. Meanwhile, Ukraine carried out a large-scale drone assault on Moscow, resulting in three deaths.
Ukraine Calls for a Clear Response from Russia
Zelensky’s aide, Andriy Yermak, reaffirmed Ukraine’s dedication to peace. He emphasized, “Russia needs to say, very clearly, they want peace or not, they want to end this war, which they started, or no.”
Trump Pressures Ukraine and Engages Russia
Trump’s approach to the conflict shocked allies as he increased pressure on Kyiv while initiating dialogue with Moscow. Consequently, Ukrainian officials entered negotiations in Saudi Arabia with a willingness to compromise. They initially suggested halting air and sea attacks, but U.S. officials pushed for a broader agreement. Eventually, Ukraine consented to a full ceasefire.
Challenges in Securing a Lasting Peace
Even if Russia agrees to the ceasefire, numerous obstacles remain. Ukraine demands security guarantees, but Trump has ruled out NATO membership. According to National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, the Jeddah discussions included talks about Ukraine’s long-term security arrangements.
European Concerns and Macron’s Proposal
European leaders are wary of Trump’s shifting stance. French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the necessity of strong security guarantees for Ukraine. He suggested that European forces might play a role in maintaining a lasting ceasefire.
