The United States announced on Tuesday its decision to reinstate military assistance and intelligence collaboration with Ukraine following discussions in which Kyiv expressed its willingness to accept a U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in its ongoing conflict with Russia, as stated in a joint declaration from both nations.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that the proposal would now be presented to Russia, emphasizing that the next move lies with Moscow. “We hope for a swift affirmative response from the Russians so we can advance to the next stage, which involves substantive negotiations,” Rubio remarked to the press, referencing U.S. President Donald Trump, after more than eight hours of discussions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Three years ago, the Kremlin initiated a comprehensive invasion of Ukraine, and Russia, which has made territorial gains, currently occupies approximately 20% of Ukraine, including Crimea, annexed in 2014. Rubio expressed that Washington aims for a comprehensive agreement with both Russia and Ukraine “as soon as possible.” He noted, “With each passing day, the conflict persists, resulting in casualties and suffering on both sides.”
The nature of Moscow’s response remains uncertain. Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated a willingness to engage in peace negotiations; however, he and his officials have consistently opposed a ceasefire, insisting on a resolution that ensures Russia’s “long-term security.” Putin has dismissed any possibility of territorial concessions and has stated that Ukraine must completely withdraw from four regions that Russia claims and partially controls.
On Tuesday, Russia’s foreign ministry merely stated that it does not exclude the possibility of engaging with U.S. representatives.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who was present in Saudi Arabia but did not engage in the discussions, described the proposed ceasefire as a “positive initiative” that encompasses the entire frontline of the conflict, extending beyond just aerial and naval engagements.
WILL RUSSIA CONCUR?
Zelenskiy indicated that the ceasefire would commence once Russia provides its consent. “Once the agreements are enacted, we will have a 30-day period of ‘silence’ to collaborate with our partners on preparing comprehensive documentation for sustainable peace and long-term security,” he stated. Rubio mentioned that the proposal would be communicated to the Russians through various channels. Trump’s national security adviser, Mike Waltz, is scheduled to meet with his Russian counterpart soon, while Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, plans to visit Moscow this week for discussions with Putin.
On Tuesday, Trump expressed optimism for a quick ceasefire and anticipated a conversation with Putin within the week. “I hope it will be resolved in the next few days,” he remarked to reporters during a White House event promoting his close adviser Elon Musk’s Tesla company.
The U.S.-Ukraine agreement marks a significant shift from a contentious meeting at the White House on February 28, where the new Republican president, known for his skepticism towards Ukraine aid, met with Zelenskiy. In a joint statement released on Tuesday, both nations affirmed their commitment to swiftly finalize a comprehensive agreement aimed at developing Ukraine’s critical mineral resources, which had been stalled due to the earlier meeting.
Following that meeting, the United States halted intelligence sharing and arms deliveries to Ukraine, highlighting Trump’s readiness to exert pressure on a U.S. ally as he shifts towards a more accommodating stance with Moscow. On Tuesday, Trump announced his intention to invite Zelenskiy back to the White House. Ukrainian officials later confirmed that both military aid and intelligence sharing from the U.S. had resumed.
EUROPEAN PARTNERS
A senior advisor to Zelenskiy indicated that discussions regarding security guarantees for Ukraine took place with U.S. officials. Securing these guarantees has been a primary objective for Kyiv, and several European nations have shown interest in the possibility of deploying peacekeepers. In a joint statement, Ukraine emphasized the necessity of involving European partners in the peace negotiations. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is scheduled to visit the White House on Thursday.
“It appears that the Americans and Ukrainians have made a significant move towards peace. Europe is prepared to assist in achieving a fair and enduring resolution,” stated Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on X. Waltz noted that the initial resumption of military support for Ukraine would include equipment from U.S. stockpiles that had been authorized by former President Joe Biden but were halted by Trump.
As diplomatic efforts unfold, Ukraine’s military positions are facing intense pressure, particularly in Russia’s Kursk region, where Moscow’s forces are attempting to dislodge Kyiv’s troops, who have been trying to maintain control over a strategic area as leverage. In a significant response, Ukraine launched its largest drone assault on Moscow and its vicinity to date, demonstrating its capability to strike back following a series of Russian missile and drone attacks, one of which resulted in 14 fatalities on Saturday. The operation, which saw 337 drones intercepted over Russia, led to the deaths of at least three workers at a meat warehouse and caused a temporary closure of four airports in Moscow.
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