Ukraine is prepared to accept a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, contingent on US resuming intelligence sharing and security support. US Secretary of State Rubio will present the proposal to Russia. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy welcomed the ceasefire proposal, which requires Russian approval. Moscow, while open to discussions, has previously rejected temporary ceasefires and insists on territorial control as a prerequisite for peace talks.
Ukraine has signaled its readiness to accept a 30-day ceasefire in its ongoing conflict with Russia, following discussions with the United States in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In return for this ceasefire, the US will resume its intelligence sharing and security assistance halted earlier. This proposal is now set to be presented to Russia for approval, marking a pivotal moment in the negotiations regarding the three-year conflict.
During the dialogue, officials from Ukraine and the US reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing peace. They jointly conveyed that Ukraine’s readiness for a ceasefire, which is contingent on Russia’s acceptance, aims to facilitate broader negotiations. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the urgency of the situation, expressing hope that Russia will quickly respond affirmatively to this proposal, thereby advancing to substantive negotiations.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine expressed optimism regarding this initiative, confirming that Ukraine is prepared to take significant steps towards peace, contingent upon Russia’s agreement. He appreciated the constructive dialogue with the US and reiterated the necessity for US involvement in persuading Russia to accept the ceasefire. Zelenskyy underscored Ukraine’s commitment to achieving a reliable and lasting peace.
There exists a contrasting stance from Moscow, which has historically rejected temporary ceasefires. President Vladimir Putin has expressed a willingness to discuss peace but maintains a firm position against territorial concessions. He insists that Ukraine retract from the four territories claimed by Russia. Zelenskyy reiterated the US proposal for a comprehensive ceasefire that extends beyond a mere cessation of active military actions, indicating Ukraine’s commitment to this path as long as Russian concurrence is achieved.
Ukraine also voiced its concern about the exclusion of European leaders from the peace negotiations, insisting that European involvement is essential in discussions regarding the long-term security of the continent. This reflects Ukraine’s strategic intent to ensure that European interests are represented in any potential agreements, as articulated by Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga during talks following the discussions in Saudi Arabia.
In summary, Ukraine’s readiness to accept a 30-day ceasefire in exchange for renewed US support reflects a significant diplomatic step towards resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. The fate of this ceasefire hinges on Russia’s response, while both Ukraine and the US seek to promote a comprehensive negotiation framework that includes European participation, ensuring a collaborative path towards lasting peace.
Original Source: www.abc.net.au
