Ukraine agrees to US proposed 30-day ceasefire with Russia

March 12, Kathmandu: Ukraine has accepted a US-proposed 30-day ceasefire with Russia following talks in Saudi Arabia, marking the first official meeting between the two nations since a heated clash between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump on February 28.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that he would present the offer to Russia, emphasizing that Moscow’s response would determine the next steps. Ukrainian President Zelensky described the proposal as positive and urged the US to persuade Russia to agree.

The talks in Jeddah concluded with a joint US-Ukraine statement, revealing plans to resume intelligence sharing and security assistance, previously halted after the White House dispute.

Both sides agreed to form negotiating teams to pursue lasting peace and ensure Ukraine’s long-term security.

Secretary Rubio expressed hope that Russia would accept the ceasefire, noting Ukraine’s readiness to halt fighting and begin talks.

He warned that Russia’s rejection would clarify the obstacles to peace. Meanwhile, Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to visit Russia soon to discuss the proposal, though plans remain fluid. Moscow has yet to respond publicly.