Ukraine has agreed to a potential 30-day ceasefire with Russia after U.S. negotiations, with military aid and intelligence sharing set to resume. Discussions underscore a commitment to long-term peace and resource development. Security guarantees remain crucial to deter future aggression.
The United States and Ukraine announced that Ukraine is prepared to accept a 30-day ceasefire with Russia following negotiations held in Saudi Arabia. The U.S. intends to lift the previously imposed freeze on military aid and intelligence sharing as part of this arrangement. A joint statement indicated, “Ukraine expressed readiness to accept the U.S. proposal to enact an immediate, interim 30-day ceasefire,” with the possibility for extension through mutual agreement with Russia. The U.S. will emphasize that Russian reciprocity is essential for peace.
The agreement was reached after over eight hours of discussions between Ukrainian officials and a U.S. delegation led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Jeddah. It was confirmed that the U.S. would immediately resume intelligence sharing and security assistance to Ukraine, which had been halted following a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former President Trump. This aid is crucial for Ukraine as it continues to face Russian aggression following the full-scale invasion in 2022.
The support from Russia regarding the proposed ceasefire remains uncertain. Steve Witkoff, a former envoy for the Trump administration, is expected to travel to Russia soon, having previously met with President Vladimir Putin. Both delegations have agreed to identify their negotiating teams and commence discussions aimed at a lasting peace agreement that ensures Ukraine’s security. Furthermore, the U.S. has committed to addressing specific proposals with Russian representatives.
Discussions have also involved future plans for developing Ukraine’s mineral resources to bolster the economy and ensure long-term stability. Washington has encouraged Ukraine to formalize an agreement allowing U.S. access to its mineral reserves. During the negotiations, President Zelenskyy voiced his willingness to finalize a deal.
Before the talks, a senior Ukrainian official conveyed Kyiv’s readiness to negotiate peace with Russia, highlighting that while security guarantees may still be necessary to address potential future aggressions, the priority was initiating the peace process. Zelenskyy’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, emphasized that “Ukrainians want peace” and are eager to take steps towards achieving this objective. Yermak reiterated that security guarantees are crucial, stating, “we want that never, this aggression, [is] never repeated in the future again.”
In summary, Ukraine is open to a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, contingent upon mutual agreement and reciprocity from the Russian side. Following lengthy discussions, the U.S. has lifted its freeze on military aid and intelligence sharing, reaffirming its support for Ukraine amid ongoing tensions. A commitment to securing long-term peace and exploring economic opportunities for Ukraine has been established, while the necessity for security assurances remains a focal point in future negotiations.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
