Ukraine has agreed to a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, following a push from the United States, as President Donald Trump lifts the pause on military aid and intelligence sharing.
The agreement, reached after high-level talks, shifts the focus to Moscow’s response. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the development, stating, “Today, we've made an offer that Ukraine has accepted—an immediate ceasefire and negotiations to secure a lasting and sustainable peace.”
The Trump administration now plans to present the proposal to Russia, which has issued its own set of conditions for ending the war, including the removal of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and a ban on Ukraine joining NATO.
“We’re making it clear—Ukraine is ready to stop fighting and start talking. Now, it’s up to Russia to decide,” Rubio emphasized.
Trump lifts military aid freeze after high-stakes talks
The decision comes just days after tensions flared between Trump and Ukraine during an Oval Office meeting. However, following diplomatic discussions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the U.S. president is reversing course, reinstating security assistance to Ukraine with immediate effect.
“As a result of this positive step forward, the president has decided to lift the pause on military aid and intelligence sharing,” Rubio announced.
The statement was made alongside National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff, following a meeting with Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia.
“The United States will immediately resume intelligence sharing and military support to Ukraine,” a diplomatic memo from Trump’s administration confirmed. The document also highlighted that both Trump and Zelensky agreed to accelerate negotiations on a minerals trade deal.
U.S. diplomats prepare for talks with Russia
In a strategic shift, Witkoff is now preparing to visit Moscow, where he may meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This marks a stark contrast to Putin’s recent diplomatic isolation.
“The path to peace depends on Russian reciprocity,” the U.S. statement noted. The ceasefire deal is also expected to bolster Ukraine’s economy, helping offset the costs of American assistance while ensuring long-term stability.
“This isn’t a reality show—this is real life,” Rubio said. “People are dying in this war every day. The president wants it to stop, and that’s why we’re here.”
Ukraine and Russia continue military strikes amid diplomacy
Despite diplomatic efforts, the conflict remains active. Russia has continued its attacks on civilian areas, launching 126 drones and a ballistic missile, according to Ukraine’s Air Force. Meanwhile, Ukraine carried out its largest strike of the war inside Russian territory, targeting Moscow and other regions.
The high-pressure negotiations in Jeddah included key Ukrainian representatives, such as Andriy Yermak, President Zelensky’s chief of staff, and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. Saudi Arabia was represented by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and National Security Advisor Mosaad bin Mohammad al-Aiban.
As the world watches, the next move belongs to Moscow. Will Russia accept the ceasefire or continue its demands? The answer could determine the future of the war. Photo by The White House, Wikimedia commons.