Ukraine and the US have agreed to a 30-day ceasefire following peace talks in Saudi Arabia, with commitments for renewed US intelligence and security support. Key proposals include halting military strikes and facilitating prisoner exchanges. Reactions from world leaders express cautious optimism, pressing for Russia’s favorable response to the agreement.

In the aftermath of peace talks held in Saudi Arabia, Ukraine and the United States have agreed upon a 30-day ceasefire deal. This agreement, which has been accepted by Ukraine, signals a renewal of both US intelligence sharing and security assistance. The discussions sought to repair relations between Washington and Kyiv following a contentious meeting last month between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

During the Saudi negotiations, which lasted for eight hours, representatives from both nations confirmed a joint statement committing to an immediate ceasefire, extendable by mutual consent. Key points proposed by Ukraine included a halt to military strikes in both air and maritime domains, as well as exchanges of prisoners of war. These proposals were reportedly influenced by insights from UK national security advisor Jonathan Powell.

President Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s desire for peace and asserted that negotiations with Russia must continue. He confidently stated on social media that Ukraine was prepared for the ceasefire, which would be activated upon Russia’s agreement. However, Russian officials have indicated that there are concerns about the terms of the ceasefire that would necessitate assurances before any agreement.

Despite the ceasefire deal’s announcement, there was immediate hostility as Russian forces launched air attacks on Kyiv soon after. Notwithstanding this, Russian diplomats have suggested they are open to dialogue with the United States regarding the ceasefire and future negotiations on peace, while emphasizing their longstanding position against a unilateral ceasefire.

World leaders have reacted positively to the ceasefire proposal, urging Russia to respond favorably. Ursula Von der Leyen, President of the EU Commission, supported the talks, referring to them as a hopeful step towards peace. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer similarly acknowledged the significance of the agreement and reiterated that the responsibility now lies with Russia to halt hostility. Other leaders, including Germany’s former chancellor and Spain’s prime minister, have echoed these sentiments, advocating for continued support for Ukraine as negotiations commence.

The ceasefire agreement between Ukraine and the United States, following intense peace talks in Saudi Arabia, marks a potential turning point in the ongoing conflict. With the commitment of both sides to dialogue and renewed US support, hopes for a peaceful resolution are encouraged. However, challenges remain, particularly with Russia’s skepticism regarding the agreement’s terms. As world leaders rally for the ceasefire, the focus now shifts to Moscow’s response and the viability of sustained negotiations for peace in the region.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk

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