Ukraine has agreed to an immediate 30-day ceasefire with Russia, following a proposal put forward by the United States during diplomatic talks in Saudi Arabia.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the development, stating that Washington would now present the offer to Moscow. "The ball is in their court," he said at a press briefing in Jeddah on Tuesday.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the proposal, describing it as a "positive step" and urging the US to persuade Russia to accept it.
The talks in Jeddah marked the first formal engagement between Ukraine and the US since the contentious Oval Office exchange between Zelensky and President Donald Trump.
In a joint statement, Washington announced the immediate resumption of intelligence sharing and security assistance to Ukraine, which had been suspended amid diplomatic tensions.
"Both sides have agreed to designate negotiation teams and begin talks toward a lasting peace that ensures Ukraine's long-term security," the statement read.
Rubio expressed hope that Moscow would respond favorably, adding, "Ukraine is ready to stop fighting and engage in dialogue. If Russia refuses, then we’ll know where the real obstacle to peace lies."
The 30-day truce extends beyond Zelensky’s earlier proposal for a limited ceasefire in air and maritime zones. In a video message, the Ukrainian leader called on Russia to "demonstrate its willingness to end or continue the war."
The Kremlin has yet to officially respond, though Russian officials indicated a statement would be issued after reviewing the US proposal.
Meanwhile, hostilities continued on the battlefield. Russian authorities reported overnight drone strikes on Moscow, while Ukrainian air defenses intercepted dozens of Russian drones targeting Kyiv and other cities.
At the White House, Trump reiterated his hope that President Vladimir Putin would accept the ceasefire, stating, "It takes two to tango."
With high-level negotiations set to continue, Washington remains optimistic about securing a breakthrough.
Source: BBC
BDST: 0841 HRS, MAR 12, 2025
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