US President Donald Trump has praised Ukraine’s decision to agree to a ceasefire following peace talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and expressed hope that Russia will also agree to the terms. Trump emphasized the importance of ending the conflict, which has claimed the lives of soldiers and civilians on both sides.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Trump said, “Ukraine has just agreed to a ceasefire. Now we hope President Putin will agree to it too, so we can finally end this horrible war. People are being killed, and cities are being destroyed — we need this war to stop.”
Trump described the agreement as a crucial step toward peace, underscoring that if Russia also agrees, negotiations for a long-term solution can begin. “The ceasefire is very important. If we can get Russia on board, that would be great. If not, the fighting will continue, and more lives will be lost,” he added.
The agreement involves Ukraine’s acceptance of a US-proposed “immediate, interim 30-day ceasefire,” extendable by mutual agreement and contingent on Russia’s acceptance. In return, the US will lift its pause on intelligence sharing and resume security assistance to Ukraine.
“The United States will communicate to Russia that their cooperation is key to achieving peace,” stated the joint declaration following the US-Ukraine meeting in Jeddah. The discussions also addressed humanitarian relief efforts, including the exchange of prisoners of war, the release of civilian detainees, and the return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred to Russia.
Both delegations agreed to name negotiating teams and start talks toward a lasting peace that ensures Ukraine’s long-term security. The Ukrainian side reaffirmed the importance of involving European partners in the peace process.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised Trump’s leadership, noting that Ukraine’s decision puts the next move in Russia’s hands. “Today was a good day for peace,” Rubio said. “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership and the hospitality of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, we are one step closer to restoring durable peace. The ball is now in Russia’s court.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also welcomed the agreement, calling it a “positive step.” Zelenskyy expressed optimism that the ceasefire could take effect immediately if Russia agrees.
“Our position remains clear: Ukraine has sought peace from the very beginning of this war,” Zelenskyy stated. “We have proposed three key points: stopping missile and drone strikes, ensuring safety at sea, and implementing confidence-building measures, including the release of prisoners and the return of our children forcibly taken to Russia.”
Last week, Trump revealed he had received a letter from Zelenskyy expressing Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate for lasting peace and sign agreements on minerals and security. Trump also indicated that the US has received strong signals from Moscow showing readiness for peace talks.
