The United States has called for a 30-day ceasefire and the resumption of military aid to Ukraine

On March 11, 2025, the international situation witnessed a significant development. After nine hours of talks in Saudi Arabia, high-level delegations from the United States and Ukraine issued a joint statement, calling for a 30-day temporary ceasefire along the frontlines between Russia and Ukraine. This proposal not only marks an important step forward for the international community in seeking a solution to the Ukraine crisis but also indicates a subtle shift in the US stance towards Ukraine, accompanied by the resumption of military aid to Ukraine.

US-Ukraine Joint Statement: 30-Day Temporary Ceasefire

Following the conclusion of the talks, the United States and Ukraine promptly released a joint statement, stating that Ukraine is willing to accept the 30-day temporary ceasefire proposal put forward by the United States. The original intention of this proposal is to provide both sides with a breathing space to resolve the dispute through diplomatic channels and create favorable conditions for the delivery of humanitarian aid and the exchange of prisoners of war. Ukraine indicated that this ceasefire period can be extended with mutual consent, provided that it is accepted and implemented simultaneously by Russia.

The United States demonstrated a positive attitude during the talks, not only proposing the ceasefire but also committing to immediately lift the suspension of intelligence sharing and provide security assistance to Ukraine. This shift is particularly notable because just a few weeks ago, in early March, the United States had suspended military aid to Ukraine after a dispute between Ukrainian President Zelensky and former US President Trump during their meeting at the White House. The resumption of aid is undoubtedly a recognition and support for Ukraine's demonstrated commitment to the peace process.

Humanitarian Issues and the Advancement of the Peace Process

During the talks, the US and Ukraine also delved deeply into the significance of humanitarian issues as part of the peace process. Particularly during the ceasefire period, both sides agreed to work towards the exchange of prisoners of war, the release of detained civilians, and assisting displaced Ukrainian children to return home. These measures not only help alleviate the current humanitarian crisis but also lay a more solid foundation for future peace negotiations.

Furthermore, the delegations from both sides agreed to determine the composition of the negotiation teams and immediately commence negotiations to achieve a lasting peace and ensure Ukraine's long-term security. The US has committed to discussing these specific proposals with Russian representatives, indicating that the US is attempting to build a bridge of communication between Russia and Ukraine and encourage both sides to resolve the dispute through peaceful means.

International Response and Expectations

Following the joint statement by the US and Ukraine, the international community promptly reacted. Leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen all expressed their welcome for this development and called on all parties to seize the opportunity to promote a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Notably, Sunak announced that he would convene an online meeting of world leaders on March 15 to discuss the next steps, further highlighting the international community's attention and expectations for the peace process between Russia and Ukraine.

However, it is worth noting that Russia has not yet made an official response to this ceasefire proposal. Previously, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the goal of resolving the Ukraine conflict should not be a temporary truce but achieving long-term peace. Therefore, how to persuade Russia to accept this ceasefire proposal and, on this basis, push both sides to engage in substantive negotiations will be a significant challenge for the international community in the coming period.

Ukraine's Position and Preparations

The Ukrainian side has shown a positive attitude towards the ceasefire proposal. In his regular video address, Zelensky stated that Ukraine is ready for peace and is willing to implement a 30-day temporary ceasefire along the entire frontline. He also emphasized the importance of the United States resuming its defense aid to Ukraine, including intelligence assistance. Zelensky said that Ukraine will do everything possible to advance the peace process, but it also requires the Russian side to demonstrate the same sincerity and determination.

Although the joint statement by the United States and Ukraine has brought a glimmer of hope for the peaceful resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the road ahead remains full of challenges and uncertainties. Achieving long-term peace requires both sides to show sufficient political will and a spirit of compromise, as well as the continuous support and efforts of the international community. In this process, every step of progress is worth cherishing and affirming, because the ultimate realization of peace will benefit all those involved in the conflict and the entire international community.