In a powerful move for peace, Ukraine has agreed to a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, following strategic talks with the United States. This ceasefire marks a significant step toward de-escalation in the region.
Just last month, an intense meeting between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky concluded abruptly in the Oval Office. Zelensky, seen as defiant at the time, was sent away with a firm message: return when ready for genuine peace discussions.
“Do you think that it’s respectful to come to the Oval Office of the United States of America and attack the administration that is trying to prevent the destruction of your country?” @VP
“You don’t have the cards right now. With us, you start having cards … You’re…” @POTUS pic.twitter.com/iTYyAmfuCJ
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47)
February 28, 2025
In the wake of this meeting, President Trump took decisive action by halting all military aid to Ukraine after Zelensky hinted at a prolonged conflict with Russia. This pause affected ongoing military support, as well as critical intelligence sharing, until Zelensky showed readiness for a peace strategy.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio spearheaded further negotiations with the Ukrainian delegation in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. After intense discussions, Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire. The United States has pledged to lift the pause on intelligence activities and resume security assistance to Ukraine.
CBS News highlighted the breakthrough:
Ukraine said it would accept a 30-day ceasefire with Russia after talks with the U.S. in Saudi Arabia aimed at ending the fighting on Tuesday, according to a statement issued by the U.S. and Ukraine.
Following more than eight hours of deliberation in Saudi Arabia, the U.S. delegation led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reached an agreement with Ukraine.
The joint statement from the U.S. and Ukraine declared: “Ukraine expressed readiness to accept the U.S. proposal to enact an immediate, interim 30-day ceasefire, which can be extended by mutual agreement of the parties, and which is subject to acceptance and concurrent implementation by the Russian Federation.” The statement emphasized that “The United States will communicate to Russia that Russian reciprocity is the key to achieving peace.”
