Ukraine and the United States have made significant progress in their latest round of talks, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reaffirming his commitment to ending the three-year conflict with Russia.
Tensions between the two nations had escalated last month after a strained Oval Office meeting, during which former President Donald Trump put a temporary hold on U.S. military aid to Ukraine. However, following eight hours of negotiations in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on March 11, U.S. and Ukrainian officials released a joint statement confirming that military assistance and intelligence-sharing would resume immediately.
Key Elements of the Agreement
The latest agreement reaffirms U.S. support for Ukraine’s defense by ensuring continued military aid, training, and intelligence-sharing, which have been critical in countering Russian aggression. According to the Council of Foreign Relations, the bulk of U.S. assistance has been directed toward weapons systems, strategic training, and intelligence to bolster Ukraine’s military response.
Ceasefire Proposal
Ukraine has signaled its willingness to observe a 30-day ceasefire, contingent upon Russia’s approval. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the offer would be presented to the Kremlin, emphasizing that the decision now rests with Russia.
“Ukraine is ready to stop shooting and start talking. It’s up to them to say yes or no,” Rubio said. “If they reject it, then we will know where the real obstacle to peace lies.”
Long-Term Security Commitments
During the discussions, negotiators also delved into long-term security arrangements aimed at ensuring a permanent resolution to the war. Ukrainian presidential aide Andriy Yermak stressed the need for security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression, though specific details of these measures have not yet been disclosed.
Russia’s Response and Next Steps
Following the negotiations, U.S. officials urged Russia to accept the ceasefire agreement. “The ball is now in their court,” Rubio reiterated.
A spokesperson for Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed that the Kremlin was reviewing the joint statement but noted that the U.S. had not yet formally approached them with the proposal.
Escalating Drone Attacks
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, hostilities have not subsided. Reports indicate that Russia launched a fresh wave of drone strikes on Kyiv and other parts of Ukraine overnight. According to Mail Online, these attacks followed Ukraine’s most extensive recorded drone offensive, which targeted ten Russian regions shortly before the peace talks. BBC News reported that three people were killed and 18 others injured in the recent violence.
Ukraine’s Commitment to Peace
In an address following the negotiations, Zelenskyy reaffirmed Ukraine’s unwavering pursuit of a lasting resolution.
“Our position is absolutely clear: Ukraine has sought peace from the very first moment of this war. We will continue to do everything in our power to achieve it as soon as possible, in a way that guarantees lasting security and prevents future conflicts,” Zelenskyy stated.
As diplomatic efforts continue, all eyes remain on Russia’s response to the ceasefire proposal and whether these talks will lead to a meaningful step toward ending the conflict.