The United States and Ukraine are engaging in critical peace talks in Jeddah amidst intensifying conflicts on the ground. Russian forces are advancing in the Kursk region, having reclaimed 12 settlements and over 100 square kilometers, as confirmed by the Defense Ministry.
Meanwhile, Kiev’s strategic moves include launching its most extensive drone attack against Russia to date, though reports indicate it only impacted civilian locations without significant gains in strategy or tactics.
Leading the charge in Jeddah, Secretary Rubio aims to strengthen U.S. ties with Ukraine, following a dramatic scene where President Zelensky made headlines by setting himself ablaze in the Oval Office. The Ukrainian side is contemplating a preliminary semi-truce with Moscow, focusing on air and maritime engagements.
“The proposal is aimed at demonstrating he is working towards Trump’s objective to end the war at lightning speed, after the U.S. president accused the Ukrainian leader of not being ready for peace and pressed on with direct talks with Russia.”
— Reuters
The Trump administration has put a hold on military assistance and intelligence cooperation with Kiev until a genuine commitment to peace is evident.
Trump’s Vision: “Trump has framed the deal, which is set to be discussed on Tuesday, as key to continued U.S. support and compensation for many billions of dollars in U.S. military aid to Ukraine since Russia invaded three years ago.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio weighed in: “We have to understand the Ukrainian position and just have a general idea of what concessions they’d be willing to make, because you’re not going to get a ceasefire and an end to this war unless both sides make concessions.”
On the horizon, Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff anticipates sealing a US-Ukraine minerals agreement soon. He plans a visit to Moscow to meet President Vladimir Putin, possibly traveling this Thursday.
Rubio’s assessment: “The Russians can’t conquer all of Ukraine, and obviously it’ll be very difficult for Ukraine in any reasonable time period to sort of force the Russians back all the way to where they were in 2014.”
This story is unfolding, and we will bring you developments as they happen.
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