Russian sources have expressed caution regarding a US-proposed 30-day ceasefire backed by Ukraine, emphasizing that any resolution to the conflict in Ukraine must recognize Russian territorial gains and address its concerns.
In the meantime, the Kremlin has stated that it is awaiting details from the US about the proposed ceasefire that Ukraine has agreed to following discussions in Saudi Arabia.
“We expect Secretary of State (Marco) Rubio and Adviser (Michael) Walz to communicate the outcomes of the negotiations in the coming days,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, adding that Russia does not exclude the possibility of a “high-level” phone conversation with the US.
Earlier today, Mr. Rubio made a stop at Shannon Airport shortly after the peace talks concerning Ukraine in Saudi Arabia.
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He stated that European allies will need to be involved in any potential agreement regarding Ukraine, asserting: “I think that they must necessarily be included.”
Mr. Rubio also pointed out that Russia would seek the removal of European sanctions that were imposed since the onset of the conflict.
The 2022 invasion of Ukraine by Russia has resulted in hundreds of thousands of casualties, displaced millions, and initiated the most significant confrontation between Moscow and the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.
Read More: European defence ministers to discuss Ukraine peacekeeping force. Latest Ukraine stories.
A senior Russian official indicated that President Vladimir Putin would struggle to accept the ceasefire proposal without negotiating terms and securing some guarantees.
“It is challenging for Putin to agree to this in its current form,” the official, speaking on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue, stated.
“Putin holds a strong position as Russia is advancing.”
The source indicated that without accompanying guarantees tied to a ceasefire, Russia’s position may become precarious, and they could face blame from the West for failing to halt the war.
Another senior Russian official remarked that from Russia’s viewpoint, the ceasefire proposal appears to be a trap, as Mr. Putin would find it difficult to stop the conflict without concrete guarantees or pledges.
A third Russian source suggested that the broader context indicates the United States has consented to reinstate military aid and intelligence sharing, embellishing this decision with a ceasefire proposal.
US President Donald Trump has shifted previous US policies regarding Russia, initiating bilateral discussions with Moscow and halting military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, asserting that Ukraine must agree to conditions to conclude the war.
Just yesterday, the United States agreed to resume military assistance and intelligence sharing after Kyiv expressed readiness to support a ceasefire proposal.
This morning in Warsaw, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski confirmed that the transfer of US armored vehicles from the Jasionka logistics hub in southeastern Poland had “returned to their previous level”.
Mr. Sikorski spoke alongside Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, who had participated in talks with US officials in Jeddah yesterday.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha (L) and Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski met in Warsaw.
Mr. Sybiha described the discussions held yesterday as “very important historical meetings.”
“Ukraine has agreed to the proposal for a temporary truce lasting 30 days. Now, the American side will consult with the Russian side on this matter. Ukraine is the nation that seeks an end to this war,” Mr. Sybiha added.
He mentioned that Ukrainian negotiators are working towards “a just and comprehensive peace”.
Taoiseach praises Trump for ‘unrelenting’ focus on peace.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has welcomed the agreement reached between the United States and Ukraine regarding a ceasefire proposal.
Speaking in Washington ahead of his scheduled meeting with President Donald Trump later today, the Taoiseach characterized the proposed 30-day ceasefire for peace negotiations as very encouraging news.
The Ukraine conflict is among the topics anticipated to be discussed during the Oval Office meeting.
Mr. Martin commended the US leader for what he called his unwavering emphasis on peace in both Ukraine and the Middle East.
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He stated that the developments from the discussions in Saudi Arabia contribute momentum towards a ceasefire and, hopefully, a lasting and equitable peace for Ukraine.
Last night, the Taoiseach remarked: “It’s very welcome news, and I think it heightens momentum towards a ceasefire and ultimately, hopefully, towards a lasting and just peace. Substantial discussions took place between Ukraine and the United States.”
“The magnitude of this war cannot be underestimated. Hundreds of thousands of young lives have been lost,” he added.
“It has had a devastating impact on the Ukrainian people and their civilian infrastructure. From all our perspectives, we all seek a fair and lasting peace, and hopefully, this marks the beginning of that momentum. We are now waiting to see Russia’s response,” he added.
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Mr. Martin also praised Mr. Trump for his “unrelenting” focus on peace in both Ukraine and the Middle East.
“There is never a perfect moment to embark on a peace initiative, and I commend President Trump for his relentless commitment to peace, both in Ukraine and the Middle East.”
“While there is still a journey ahead, I believe that momentum is clearly building now due to the outcomes of the talks… and hopefully this can advance into more substantial discussions,” Mr. Martin stated.
The Taoiseach expressed his anticipation of Russia’s reaction to what he termed a “positive initiative” in the peace negotiations.
“If the war continues, it will only result in more death and devastation. Hence, we require peace. In my opinion, it must be equitable and lasting,” he concluded.
World leaders welcome the agreement between the US and Ukraine.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez remarked that the 30-day US ceasefire proposal is encouraging news.
Outgoing German Chancellor Olaf Scholz praised Ukraine’s support for the ceasefire plan, stating that the decision on subsequent steps now lies with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“The concept of a 30-day ceasefire is an important and commendable step toward achieving a just peace for Ukraine… Now, it is Putin’s turn,” Mr. Scholz commented on the social media platform X.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk asserted that “Americans and Ukrainians have taken an important step towards peace,” adding that “Europe stands ready to assist in achieving a just and lasting peace,” in a post on X.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez shared that the US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine is positive news.
In response, China expressed hope for “a sustainable and lasting peace” following Ukraine’s endorsement of the proposal.
When asked about the discussions during a regular press briefing, foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning remarked that China had “noted relevant reports” and hoped “all parties could find a sustainable and lasting peace plan through dialogue and negotiation that respects each other’s concerns.”
In financial markets, European shares saw a surge following Ukraine’s acceptance of the US proposal.
Additional reporting by Sean Whelan, Liam Nolan.
