In a significant shift in the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has agreed to a proposed 30-day ceasefire, which now awaits Russia’s approval. This agreement comes after intense negotiations during peace talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where high-level officials from both nations met to seek an end to Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Following Ukraine’s commitment to the ceasefire, the United States announced the immediate resumption of military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv. The temporary pause in support had been in place amid tensions between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Ukrainian officials expressed relief at the restoration of aid, which is critical for their military efforts across the frontlines.
European leaders hailed the ceasefire agreement and the resumption of US support as a “breakthrough” in efforts to end the conflict. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the EU’s readiness to support Ukraine and the peace process. “This is a positive development that could lead to a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace for Ukraine,” they stated.
Despite these diplomatic strides, clashes between Ukrainian and Russian forces continued. The Ukrainian military reported skirmishes on the front lines, and the Donetsk region suffered Russian strikes, resulting in six deaths, including two children. Additionally, Ukraine conducted its largest drone attack on Russian territory overnight, deploying 91 drones toward the Moscow area and over 240 elsewhere, causing at least three fatalities.
French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the progress made by the US and Ukraine, urging Russia to respond positively to the ceasefire proposal. “The ball is now clearly in Russia’s court,” Macron stated, reinforcing calls for a peaceful resolution.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for Russia to engage in peace negotiations. “There’s no military solution to this war. The way to achieve peace is to negotiate, but first, the shooting must stop,” Rubio affirmed.
The peace talks in Jeddah also touched on humanitarian efforts, including prisoner exchanges, the release of civilian detainees, and the return of forcibly transferred Ukrainian children. Both nations agreed to continue negotiations toward a lasting peace and the long-term security of Ukraine.
As the world watches closely, all eyes are on Russia to respond to this latest effort toward ending the conflict.
- Source: ALJAZEERA
