American and Ukrainian officials convened in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in attendance.
In a significant development during the discussions between the United States and Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia, the administration of Donald Trump consented to recommence the exchange of military intelligence with Kyiv. In response, Ukraine expressed its willingness to consider a 30-day ceasefire in its hostilities with Moscow.
Rubio indicated that the United States would communicate to Russia “what’s on the table,” emphasizing that Ukraine is prepared to cease hostilities and engage in dialogue. “The decision now rests with them to accept or decline,” he remarked.
US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz noted that the Ukrainian delegation clearly articulated their alignment with President Donald Trump’s “vision for peace.” He further stated that Ukrainian officials delved into substantive discussions regarding the permanent resolution of the conflict, which included considerations for long-term security assurances.
These discussions occurred shortly after Russia intercepted over 300 Ukrainian drones, marking Kyiv’s most significant offensive since the Kremlin’s full-scale invasion.
The meeting in Jeddah included prominent figures such as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, NSA Mike Waltz, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, and Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak. Additionally, Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan and National Security Advisor Mosaad bin Mohammad Al-Aiban were present.
It is noteworthy that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, although in Saudi Arabia, did not participate in the talks. He characterized the proposed ceasefire as a “positive proposal,” which encompasses not only aerial and naval engagements but also the broader conflict along the frontline.
Both parties have reached a consensus to expedite the finalization of the critical mineral resources agreement with Ukraine. This minerals deal has been under negotiation for several weeks but faced complications following a tense exchange between Trump and Zelensky at the Oval Office last week. Zelensky reiterated the commitment of both nations to work towards the completion of the minerals agreement.
A senior advisor to Zelensky, while withholding further specifics, indicated that discussions regarding security guarantees for Ukraine were also held with US officials during the meeting.
What does the joint statement convey?
The joint statement released by the US and Ukraine after extensive bilateral discussions emphasized the urgent need to initiate a process leading to lasting peace. Ukraine expressed its willingness to accept America’s ceasefire proposal, which entails a temporary 30-day truce, subject to Russia’s agreement and potentially extendable by mutual consent.
In the meantime, the United States will promptly resume intelligence sharing and security assistance to Ukraine. The statement also highlighted the importance of humanitarian relief efforts as part of the peace initiative, including the exchange of prisoners of war, the release of civilian detainees, and the return of Ukrainian children who have been forcibly relocated.
“Both delegations agreed to designate their negotiating teams and commence discussions aimed at achieving a sustainable peace that ensures Ukraine’s long-term security,” it stated.
Following the issuance of the statement, Marco Rubio confirmed that the US president desires an immediate resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. “Our hope is that the Russians will respond affirmatively as soon as possible, allowing us to progress to the next phase, which involves substantive negotiations,” the US Secretary of State remarked.
