Washington: The US announced that Ukraine has agreed to an immediate 30-day ceasefire proposal, leaving it to Russia to decide whether to reciprocate.
The US also confirmed the lifting of its pause on intelligence sharing and military assistance to Ukraine.
“Ukraine is prepared to halt the fighting and begin talks; now, it’s up to Russia to respond,” US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters after meeting with Ukrainian officials in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
He expressed hope that Russia would agree, stating, “If they say yes, it will mark significant progress. If they say no, we will know who is hindering peace.” Rubio emphasized that President Biden is determined to end the war through negotiations and believes peace is more achievable when the fighting ceases. Ukraine has expressed its readiness to stop fighting immediately, and the US hopes Russia will respond similarly.
A joint statement from the US and Ukraine affirmed that Ukraine is willing to accept the proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, which can be extended with mutual consent, provided Russia also agrees. The US will convey to Russia that their cooperation is essential for peace.
The statement also noted that the US will resume intelligence sharing and security support for Ukraine immediately.