Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on March 10, 2025, resulting in the announcement of a proposed 30-day ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The ceasefire is contingent upon acceptance by Russia and was facilitated by negotiations led by the United States.
Zelenskiy expressed readiness to halt hostilities across all fronts, emphasizing that the ceasefire would not only encompass missile and drone activities but also broader military actions. He urged the U.S. to persuade Russia to agree to the plan, indicating that immediate silence in combat would follow such an agreement.
The U.S. has resumed its intelligence sharing and security assistance to Ukraine, which has been under Russian invasion for over three years. Rubio stated that the offer extended to Ukraine aims to foster an enduring resolution to the conflict that considers Ukraine’s security and prosperity. He remarked that the responsibility now lies with Russia to reciprocate the offer for peace.
The joint statement from the U.S. and Ukrainian delegations noted that the ceasefire could be extended upon mutual agreement and highlighted the importance of humanitarian efforts as part of the peace initiative. Discussions included prisoner exchanges, the release of civilian detainees, and addressing the return of forcibly transferred Ukrainian children.
Zelenskiy reiterated Ukraine's long-standing desire for peace, emphasizing the need for a reliable resolution to prevent the return of war. The situation remains fluid, with further developments anticipated as responses from Russia are awaited.