Ukraine has announced its willingness to accept a 30-day ceasefire with Russia following diplomatic discussions with the United States in Saudi Arabia.
The development emerged after a high-level meeting between US and Ukrainian officials in Jeddah, according to a report by the BBC on Wednesday (12 March).
Following a one-day negotiation session, Ukraine declared its immediate readiness to observe the US-proposed ceasefire, contingent upon Russia’s agreement.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Washington would now present the proposal to Moscow, emphasising that the decision ultimately rests with the Kremlin.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that persuading Russia to accept the ceasefire now depends on US efforts.
The Jeddah talks marked the first formal engagement between Washington and Kyiv following a heated exchange between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office.
In a joint statement, the US pledged to resume intelligence-sharing and security assistance with Ukraine, which had been suspended in the aftermath of the Trump-Zelensky altercation.
Both sides also agreed to name their respective negotiating teams and initiate discussions on a long-term security framework for Ukraine.
Speaking at a late-night press conference in Jeddah, Rubio expressed optimism that Russia would accept the ceasefire.
"Ukraine is ready to halt hostilities and engage in dialogue. If Russia rejects this proposal, we will, unfortunately, have clarity on what stands in the way of peace," he remarked.
He further stated, "We have put forward a proposal that Ukraine has accepted—a ceasefire followed by immediate negotiations. We will now present it to Russia and hope they choose the path to peace."
Meanwhile, Zelensky extended his gratitude to Trump for what he described as "constructive discussions" in Jeddah.
In a video message, he remarked, "Russia must either cease hostilities or openly declare its intent to continue the war. The moment of truth has arrived."
The Kremlin has yet to issue an official response to the proposal.
However, on Tuesday, Russian officials indicated that Moscow would release a statement after receiving a briefing from Washington on the outcome of the negotiations.
Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and currently controls approximately 20 per cent of Ukrainian territory.
