The United States and Ukraine reached an agreement for a 30-day ceasefire, contingent on Russia's approval, following discussions in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.
"Ukraine has shown willingness to accept the U.S. proposal for an immediate, interim 30-day ceasefire, extendable by mutual consent, provided it is accepted and simultaneously implemented by the Russian Federation," a joint statement read. "The United States will convey to Russia that its reciprocal commitment is essential for achieving peace," it added.
The meeting followed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday and, prior to that, Riyadh's hosting of Russia-US talks on Feb. 18. These events highlight the kingdom's growing role as a mediator — a role that has only expanded since Donald Trump took office.
What happened: The American and Ukrainian delegations met on Tuesday for talks that were hosted by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Saudi national security adviser Musaad al-Aiban. The Ukrainian side was led by Zelenskyy's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak; Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha; Defense Minister Rustem Umerov; and Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Pavlo Palisa. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, national security adviser Mike Waltz and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff led the US side.
AL-MONITOR All-Access gives you unlimited access to all our journalism, the full Daily Briefing, exclusive interviews, premium newsletters, and live events — for less than $2/week.
