U.S. Resumes Military Aid to Ukraine Amid Ceasefire Proposal

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — The United States announced on March 11, 2025, that it would resume military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine after discussions in Jeddah. During talks that lasted over eight hours, Ukraine expressed its willingness to back a proposed 30-day ceasefire with Russia, contingent on Moscow’s agreement. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Now it’ll be up to them to say yes or no,” in reference to the Kremlin.

The ceasefire, which would cover the entire frontline, marks a significant shift in U.S.-Ukraine relations, following a tumultuous meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy last month. The proposal aims to halt hostilities and pave the way for further negotiations to reach a comprehensive peace agreement.

Rubio articulated a hopeful outlook, saying, “If they say no, then we’ll unfortunately know what the impediment is to peace here.” Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials underscored the importance of the ceasefire. Zelenskyy noted that the agreement would provide time for strategic planning regarding long-term peace and security.

The war has ravaged Ukraine since Russia launched its invasion three years ago, and Russian troops currently occupy roughly one-fifth of the nation’s territory, including Crimea. The ceasefire proposal followed an unprecedented attack where Ukraine targeted multiple regions in Russia with drones, indicating the ongoing volatility of the conflict.

National Security Adviser Mike Waltz stated that negotiators discussed critical details on ending the conflict, including security guarantees for Ukraine. He remarked, “The Ukrainian delegation today made something very clear: they share President Trump’s vision for peace.”

Although Trump has expressed hope for a swift agreement with Russia, the Kremlin has dismissed the ceasefire proposal in the past. President Vladimir Putin has insisted that Moscow will not consent to short truce arrangements, claiming they only provide an opportunity for military regrouping. Russian officials have asserted that any agreements must satisfy Russia’s security concerns and recognize the occupied regions as part of Russia.

As Ukraine prepares for potential peace talks, Zelenskyy’s aides revealed that discussions on security guarantees were brought up with U.S. officials. The Biden administration had previously suspended military assistance and intelligence sharing, heightening concerns about Ukraine’s ability to combat the ongoing threat.

With the backdrop of U.S.-Ukraine talks, Russia launched drone attacks against Ukraine. The Ukrainian air force confirmed the downing of 343 drones targeting several of its regions. The violence underscores the urgency for a ceasefire to protect civilian populations on both fronts.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha discussed the outcomes of the Jeddah meetings with European counterparts, emphasizing the necessity of their involvement in peace negotiations. In response to ongoing threats from Russia, Ukraine has been strengthening its defense strategies, particularly in regions such as Kursk.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk remarked, “It seems like the Americans and Ukrainians have taken an important step towards peace. And Europe stands ready to help reach a just and lasting peace,” referring to the emerging dynamics following the ceasefire discussions.

As the situation progresses, both nations remain cautious, with skepticism about the Kremlin’s willingness to engage in serious negotiations. The next steps will depend significantly on Moscow’s reaction to the U.S. ceasefire proposal.