In a significant development, the United States has lifted its suspension of military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine following high-stakes talks held in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.
The discussions focused on finding a path to end the ongoing war with Russia.
After the meeting, Ukraine announced its willingness to accept a US proposal for an initial 30-day ceasefire with Russia, contingent on Russia’s acceptance and simultaneous implementation of the agreement.
A joint statement emphasized that the United States would communicate to Moscow that Russian cooperation is essential for peace.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the development, stating, “I will take the offer to Moscow,” and adding that “the ball is in their court.”
He expressed cautious optimism that Russia might agree to the ceasefire, but noted that if Moscow rejects the proposal, “we’ll unfortunately know what the impediment is to peace here.”
Rubio poignantly reminded the world that the ongoing war continues to cost lives, with casualties occurring daily.
The US Secretary of State clarified that the ceasefire offer was aimed at halting active combat, marking a shift from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s previous proposal, which focused on a partial truce in specific areas like the sea and airspace.
The White House described the talks as “positive” and “productive,” highlighting an improved tone in US-Ukrainian relations following a tense exchange between President Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump that had previously strained diplomatic interactions.
Zelensky, in a video statement, emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to peace, saying, “Ukraine is ready for peace. Russia must show its readiness to end the war or continue the war. It is time for the full truth.”
He reiterated that the US would play a crucial role in convincing Russia to accept the ceasefire proposal.
