U.S. and Ukraine Announce 30-Day Ceasefire Agreement with Russia

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia — Ukraine has agreed to a 30-day ceasefire with Russia following extensive negotiations with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia on March 11, 2025. The decision came as part of a U.S.-negotiated plan that aims to halt hostilities and initiate talks aimed at a comprehensive peace agreement.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that Ukraine accepted a U.S. proposal for the ceasefire, which will take effect immediately pending Russia’s acceptance. “Today, we made an offer that the Ukrainians have accepted, which is to enter into a ceasefire and immediate negotiations to end this conflict,” Rubio said. “The ball is now in their court,” indicating that the next step rests with Russia.

The U.S. will immediately lift its pause on sharing intelligence and resume military aid previously halted due to escalating tensions. This aid, valued at approximately $3.8 billion, includes crucial equipment such as air defense systems and artillery support.

The announcement came after nearly eight hours of discussions between high-level delegations from Ukraine and the United States in Jeddah. Both nations recognize the need for an enduring and sustainable resolution, taking into account Ukraine’s national interests and security.

“Ukraine expressed readiness to accept the U.S. proposal for an immediate, interim ceasefire,” a joint statement from the U.S. and Ukraine stated. Furthermore, it emphasized that the ceasefire could be extended upon mutual agreement and that “Russian reciprocity is key to achieving peace.”

During the negotiations, humanitarian relief efforts were also a focus, with discussions surrounding the exchange of prisoners of war and the return of forcibly transferred Ukrainian children.

Additionally, President Donald Trump and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed to expedite the development of Ukraine’s critical mineral resources, a move aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s economy and ensuring long-term security. “For Ukraine, this is a vital step forward,” Rubio stated regarding the mineral agreement.

Despite the optimism surrounding this agreement, the willingness of Russia to reciprocate remains uncertain. The situation remains fluid as stakeholders evaluate the next moves. Senior U.S. officials, including White House envoy Steve Witkoff, are expected to engage further with Russian counterparts in the coming days to promote the initiative.

As the world watches closely, the outcome of these negotiations could significantly impact the ongoing conflict and the broader geopolitical landscape in Eastern Europe.