Ukraine Ready for 30-Day Ceasefire as US Puts Pressure on Russia

Ukraine has expressed willingness to accept a 30-day ceasefire, while the US states that the next move is up to Russia. Read more on the latest developments in the conflict.

Ukraine has expressed its readiness to accept a U.S. proposal for an initial 30-day ceasefire with Russia, following negotiations in Saudi Arabia.

According to a joint statement, Washington will promptly resume intelligence sharing and “security assistance” with Ukraine.

According to James Waterhouse, even though it may be an American tune, Ukraine is now finally in harmony with the US.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that “the ball is in the Russians’ court,” indicating his intent to bring the proposal to Moscow.

Rubio stated that the offer entails a total ceasefire, effectively “to stop the shooting.”

Paul Adams writes that it now appears to be the moment for Russia’s intentions to undergo public scrutiny.

Responses continue to flow in, with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer being the latest to “warmly welcome” the news emerging from Saudi Arabia this evening.

“This is a pivotal moment for peace in Ukraine, and it is crucial that we intensify our efforts to achieve a lasting and secure peace as soon as possible,” states Starmer.

He echoes a phrase used by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio: “The ball is now in the Russian court.”

He also stated, “Russia must now commit to a ceasefire and bring an end to the conflict as well.”

Starmer states, “We are prepared to assist in ending this war in a fair and lasting manner that enables Ukraine to maintain its freedom.” He announces plans to gather leaders this weekend for discussions on the “next steps”.

Although it’s an American tune, Ukraine is now harmonizing with the US.

This joint statement suggests that their relationship appears to be mended. Donald Trump has even proposed inviting Volodymyr Zelensky back to the White House, bringing him in from his political isolation.

It is likely that Ukraine’s leader will sign a minerals deal, paving the way for American investment. However, his desired security guarantees are still not in place.

Notably, Rubio emphasized that ensuring the security of the Ukrainian people is central to this proposed ceasefire, which would extend across the entire front line.

Now that Ukraine is expressing “gratitude” and a “willingness for peace,” the United States may be ready to help ensure its long-term future.

This proposal is filled with numerous caveats and contains a significant “but.”

The question then becomes: how will Russia respond? Will it embrace Washington’s proposal and enact the ceasefire “immediately”?

If Vladimir Putin chooses not to engage with the “ball” that America claims is now in his court, this diplomatic breakthrough will rapidly fall apart.

However, the reason it’s still important is that, for now, the United States appears to be supporting Ukraine.