EDDAH, Saudi Arabia — The United States and Ukraine have taken a significant step toward a potential peace agreement, with Ukraine expressing readiness to accept a U.S.-backed 30-day interim ceasefire, subject to Russia’s acceptance, officials said Tuesday.
Meeting in Saudi Arabia under the hospitality of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, U.S. and Ukrainian representatives hailed the “bravery of the Ukrainian people” and stressed that “now is the time to begin a process toward lasting peace.”
“The United States will communicate to Russia that Russian reciprocity is the key to achieving peace,” the joint statement said. In parallel, Washington will lift the pause on intelligence sharing and resume security assistance to Ukraine.
The agreement also includes provisions for humanitarian relief, such as prisoner exchanges, the release of civilian detainees, and the return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred to Russia.
Both delegations agreed to name negotiating teams and begin discussions on a long-term security framework for Ukraine. European partners will be included in the peace process, Ukrainian officials confirmed.
In addition to security concerns, both nations’ leaders pledged to finalize a comprehensive agreement on developing Ukraine’s critical mineral resources, a move aimed at bolstering its economy and ensuring long-term stability.
The success of the ceasefire, however, hinges on Russia’s willingness to comply—an outcome that remains uncertain.
