US-Ukraine Peace Talks Make Significant Progress, Russia Responds

On Tuesday, March 11th, United States Secretary of State Rubio and National Security Advisor Waltz met with the Ukrainian team in Saudi Arabia for talks. They announced that Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire in order to achieve peace, and now it is up to Russia to respond. Russia immediately responded.

In this crucial meeting for Ukraine, they agreed to accept the U.S. proposal for a 30-day temporary ceasefire, which could be extended but requires acceptance and implementation by Russia.

Following progress in negotiations with Ukraine, Rubio and Waltz stated that it is now Russia’s responsibility to take measures to end the war they have waged against Ukraine.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, in an interview with the Russian state news agency TASS, said, “We do not rule out contacts with U.S. representatives in the coming days.”

After more than 8 hours of talks, Waltz told reporters, “Ukraine is prepared for peace, and now we will convey this message to the Russians to get their response.”

Speaking about Russia, Rubio said, “We hope they will say ‘yes’ to peace. Now it depends on their decision.”

“If they say ‘no,’ then unfortunately, we will know what the obstacle to peace is,” he added.

Waltz mentioned that he will be engaging in discussions with Russian counterparts in the “coming days.” The U.S. hopes to make progress quickly.

Rubio and Waltz both emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to peace.

“The Ukrainian delegation made it very clear today – they endorse President Trump’s vision for peace,” Waltz said.

“They presented specific steps and proposals, not only accepting our comprehensive ceasefire proposal but also discussing concrete details on how to permanently end this war, what kind of guarantees are needed for their long-term security and prosperity, and truly examining the measures required to finally end this terrible conflict,” Waltz stated.

He also mentioned, “Due to this positive development, President Trump has decided to lift the suspension on aid to Ukraine, including security assistance, which will take effect immediately.”