US and Russia on Verge of Talks as Ukraine Agrees to 30-Day Ceasefire
Following the Ukraine’s announcement of a 30-day ceasefire and the US’s resumption of military aid, US President Trump revealed that American negotiators are en route to Russia. Trump made the statement during a press conference at the White House, stating, “Now it’s up to Russia.” He mentioned that while the press conference was ongoing, people were already on their way to Russia. The President also warned Russia, saying, “There are things we can do in a financial sense that would be very bad for Russia.” However, he clarified that he would not take such actions as he seeks peace.
Trump expressed hope that Russia would agree to a ceasefire and without providing specific details, mentioned that he had received some “positive signals.” He emphasized that concrete actions are necessary, as the situation is “very serious” and could potentially lead to a third world war.
On March 11, US and Ukrainian delegations held talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, resulting in a joint statement in which Ukraine agreed to a 30-day ceasefire and the signing of a mineral agreement with Washington. In return, the US promised to resume military aid and share intelligence with Ukraine.
Trump subsequently announced that the US would hold talks with the Russian side, likely to take place in the day or the next day. He also stated that he expects to have a direct conversation with Putin this week and that he would receive NATO Chief Mark Rutte in Washington on Thursday. The Russian Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, stated that the possibility of contacts between the two countries’ representatives in the coming days is not ruled out.