Ukraine has accepted a US-backed proposal for a 30-day ceasefire and agreed to start direct negotiations with Russia following discussions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In a significant policy shift, the US also announced it would reinstate military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv.
Rubio on Ukraine Ceasefire Talks
After extensive discussions with Ukrainian officials, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Washington would now take the proposal to Russia. He expressed hope that Moscow would agree swiftly, enabling the second phase of real negotiations.
Rubio emphasized that the Ukraine ceasefire talks had reached a crucial juncture, with the next move in Russia’s hands. With growing political pressure in Washington and efforts to engage Moscow, Ukraine entered these talks aiming to strengthen ties with the US. Initially proposing a limited ceasefire on air and sea attacks, Ukraine later expanded the proposal after negotiations with Trump’s advisors, leading to a broader 30-day ceasefire agreement.
I had a good meeting with Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman. I am grateful for his wise perspective on global affairs and support for Ukraine. It was especially important to hear words of confidence in Ukraine’s future.
We discussed all key issues on the… pic.twitter.com/BiBnaKViPl
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 10, 2025
“Today, we have an offer that Ukraine has accepted—ceasefire and immediate negotiations,” Rubio stated. “We will now take this to the Russians and hope they agree to peace. The decision is now theirs.” If Russia declines, he noted, it would indicate the true obstacle to achieving peace.
US Resumes Military Support
As part of the Ukraine ceasefire talks, the US confirmed the resumption of military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, reversing an earlier halt following a tense meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This move underscores Washington’s renewed commitment to Kyiv’s defense strategy.
Following these diplomatic advances, Trump signaled openness to hosting Zelenskyy at the White House again. He also suggested he might discuss the situation with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the coming days. “We have a major meeting with Russia tomorrow, and we hope for positive discussions,” Trump stated.
Ukraine and US to Sign Minerals Agreement
Alongside the Ukraine ceasefire talks, Ukraine and the US are finalizing a deal granting Washington access to Ukraine’s mineral resources. Originally set for signing before an intense February 28 meeting between Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Zelenskyy, the agreement has now been revived due to recent diplomatic progress.
Zelenskyy welcomed the ceasefire discussions and urged the US to press Russia to accept the deal. “The American side acknowledges our concerns and understands our proposals. I appreciate President Trump’s constructive engagement with our teams,” he stated in a national address.
Global Reactions to Ukraine Ceasefire Talks
French President Emmanuel Macron cautiously praised the progress, remarking, “The decision now rests with Russia,” echoing Rubio’s comments. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also shared similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of security guarantees for Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Russia’s Foreign Ministry played down the significance of the Jeddah talks. Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated, “The Russian Federation’s stance is shaped internally and not determined by external discussions or negotiations.”
The Ukraine ceasefire talks have become a critical turning point in the conflict. With Ukraine agreeing to the US-brokered ceasefire and military aid resuming, all eyes are now on Russia’s response. As global leaders monitor developments, the potential for de-escalation remains uncertain, but the next step is now in Moscow’s hands.
