Ceasefire Prospects Depend on Russia, Ukraine Officials Declare After U.S. Talks
Following talks in Saudi Arabia, Ukrainian officials stated that a ceasefire’s success hinges on Russia’s willingness to agree. A 30-day ceasefire proposal has been made, with Ukraine prepared to engage if Russia follows suit. The shifting political context, especially with Trump’s re-entry into office, presents challenges for Ukraine’s reliance on U.S. support amidst ongoing hostilities.
LONDON — A senior aide to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the opportunity for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine lies “in Moscow’s hands,” following the productive U.S.-Ukraine dialogue in Saudi Arabia. Andriy Yermak, head of Zelenskyy’s office, emphasized a mutual agreement to pursue a 30-day ceasefire which could facilitate full peace negotiations regarding Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Yermak announced on Telegram that Ukraine is willing to accept this ceasefire, which he described as crucial for establishing security guarantees and preparing a comprehensive peace agreement. He further commented, “But now the key is in Moscow’s hands — the whole world will see who really wants to end the war and who is simply playing for time.”
The political landscape has shifted since former President Donald Trump regained office, as Ukraine can no longer depend on the previously steady support it received from the Biden administration. Trump has aligned himself with narratives that blame Ukraine for the war and questions the legitimacy of Zelenskyy’s presidency, contributing to a freeze on U.S. military aid.
The recent U.S.-Ukraine meeting in Saudi Arabia resulted in the restoration of military aid, which Moscow has interpreted as a significant change in U.S. policy. Despite this diplomatic movement, Ukrainian officials continue to express skepticism about Russia’s seriousness in pursuing peace and have urged the U.S. to maintain vigilance towards Russian intentions.
President Zelenskyy reiterated his acceptance of the ceasefire proposal, stating, “Ukraine accepts this proposal, we consider it positive, we are ready to take this step. The United States of America needs to convince Russia to do so.” He emphasized the immediacy of the situation, stating that the ceasefire would take effect when both parties agree.
Trump has indicated that further discussions with Russian representatives are imminent and expressed hope that a ceasefire could be established swiftly. He noted, “If we can get Russia to do it, that’ll be great. If we can’t, we just keep going on and people are going to get killed.”
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer remarked that “the ball is now in the Russian court,” asserting the importance of this moment for peace efforts in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff plans to visit Moscow for continued discussions, while Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed doubts regarding Trump’s commitment to providing security guarantees to Ukraine.
Despite diplomatic progress, combat continues unabated, especially in the Kursk region, where Russian forces are engaged in active offensives against Ukrainian troops. Recent reports indicate that both sides have conducted drone operations across their shared borders, with both claiming interceptions and attacks underway in various regions of Ukraine.
In summary, while Ukraine expresses readiness for a 30-day ceasefire contingent upon Russia’s agreement, the ongoing conflict remains a pressing issue. The evolving political dynamics, particularly with Trump’s administration, complicate the security guarantees that Kyiv seeks. Diplomatic discussions are underway, but fierce combat persists, reflecting the complex landscape of the current conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
Original Source: kvnutalk.com
