U.S. and Ukraine Agree To 30-Day Ceasefire Proposal, World Waits For Russia's Response
The U.S. and Ukraine have agreed to a 30-day ceasefire proposal, with Ukraine saying it is ready to stop fighting if Russia accepts the deal. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the agreement after eight hours of talks in Saudi Arabia, stating, "The ball is in their court." In return, the U.S. will resume military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv, which had been cut off after a heated Oval Office confrontation between Presidents Trump and Zelensky. The Ukrainian president called the proposal "positive," while Trump said he hoped for a swift resolution, adding, "It takes two to tango."
Despite the agreement, Russia’s response remains uncertain. Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly rejected ceasefires and insists on keeping the occupied Ukrainian territory. A Russian lawmaker stated that any negotiations would be "on our terms, not American." However, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to meet with Putin in Moscow, possibly offering incentives, including a summit with Trump, to encourage Russia’s participation. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues facing heavy attacks, with recent Russian strikes killing civilians and worsening battlefield conditions.
The ceasefire proposal has drawn mixed reactions. European leaders welcomed it, with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer calling it a "remarkable breakthrough," while some security analysts warn Putin may exploit the pause for military gains. The agreement also revives discussions on a U.S.-Ukraine critical minerals deal, which had been stalled by tensions between Trump and Zelensky. With diplomatic efforts intensifying, all eyes are on Moscow’s next move.
