After more than three years of relentless conflict, Ukraine has agreed to a U.S.-proposed ceasefire, contingent on Russia’s endorsement of the same terms. If Moscow agrees, the proposed 30-day truce will go into effect, as confirmed by a joint statement from the Ukrainian and U.S. governments.
The deal emerged from eight hours of intense discussions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where high-level talks were led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Andriy Yermak, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s chief of staff.
In a statement shared on X, Zelenskyy confirmed Ukraine’s readiness to support the 30-day ceasefire, emphasizing its comprehensive scope: “The plan would involve a full cessation of missile, drone, and bomb attacks—not only in the Black Sea but along the entire front line. Ukraine is ready to accept this proposal. Now, it’s up to the United States to persuade Russia to follow suit.”
U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed his intention to personally engage Russian President Vladimir Putin to secure Russia’s agreement, stating, “It takes two to tango.”
Immediate Ceasefire Possibility—If Russia Agrees
The fighting could end instantly if Russia signs on. Trump’s team has confirmed that they will present the ceasefire plan to Moscow. “The ball is now in their court,” said Rubio. Russia has reportedly been pleased with Trump’s approach, as the proposed ceasefire does not impose any preconditions, other than halting hostilities.
The outline of the ceasefire also provides for humanitarian steps, including prisoner exchanges, the release of detained civilians, and the return of forcibly relocated Ukrainian children.
Will Putin Agree?
Initial responses from Moscow have been lukewarm. Maria Zakharova, a spokeswoman for Russia’s foreign ministry, noted, “We do not rule out contacts with U.S. representatives over the next few days.”
Despite Russia’s recent battlefield gains, aided by countries like North Korea, China, and Iran, Western officials remain skeptical about Putin’s commitment to long-term peace. Putin has previously outlined demands that Ukraine is unlikely to accept, such as banning European peacekeepers and granting international recognition for Russian-occupied territories. Whether Putin will soften these terms under Trump’s influence remains to be seen.
U.S. to Resume Intelligence Sharing with Ukraine
After a controversial decision to halt military and intelligence support to Kyiv, the U.S. has now agreed to resume sharing intelligence and security assistance, signaling a shift in Washington’s approach to the conflict.
Not a Peace Deal, But a Temporary Truce
While the proposal outlines a 30-day ceasefire, it is not a peace deal. The truce could be extended if both sides agree. Once fighting halts, negotiations will begin in earnest on the terms for a lasting peace agreement. Both the U.S. and Ukraine have pledged to form negotiating teams soon.
No Mineral Deal Attached
Trump has been clear about his interest in Ukraine’s rich mineral reserves, such as lithium, uranium, and titanium. While there were expectations that a deal on mineral rights would be struck during Zelenskyy’s recent White House visit, those talks faltered amid a public rift between Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The ceasefire announcement, however, is unrelated to these mineral discussions, though Trump has hinted at inviting Zelenskyy back to Washington for further talks.
Ukraine Has Not Yet Given Up Territory
Ahead of the Jeddah talks, Rubio cautioned Ukraine about the need to make territorial concessions. However, during the eight hours of discussions, the issue of ceding territory was not broached, according to a Ukrainian official. If substantive peace talks move forward, territorial issues are expected to be a central point of contention.
No Security Guarantees from Trump
Trump has made it clear that the U.S. will not offer substantial security guarantees to Ukraine, placing the responsibility for future security on Europe rather than America. This stance remains unchanged in the joint statement.
Europe’s Role in the Peace Process
Ukraine has expressed a desire for European partners to be actively involved in the peace process, though it is unclear whether the U.S. shares this view. Both European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have praised the progress toward peace.
What Comes Next?
In response to the ceasefire talks, Starmer will convene a meeting of European and other global leaders on Saturday. He, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, is working to build a “coalition of the willing”—countries willing to deploy peacekeepers or support an international mission to uphold the truce.
However, the U.S. is not part of these discussions, as Trump’s administration has ruled out sending American troops. Much depends on whether Starmer and Macron can assemble a coalition strong enough to deter Russian aggression while being neutral enough to reassure Putin that it poses no threat.
The world waits to see whether this fragile peace proposal can bring a lasting end to the conflict.
