Turning Point in US-Ukraine Negotiations: The Focus Shifts to Putin

A significant development has emerged in the discussions between the United States and Ukraine, as the latter is now considering a 30-day ceasefire across all fronts. However, the main question remains: how much of what was negotiated can actually be implemented? Will Russian President Vladimir Putin agree to this ceasefire? Additionally, what transpired behind closed doors in Jeddah that has not yet been disclosed?

Sources within the Ukrainian government and European diplomats have shared insights into the prevailing hopes and concerns following the recent talks in Saudi Arabia. A high-ranking Ukrainian official emphasized the importance of continued US support, stating that receiving military assistance is crucial. The agreement reached between Ukrainian representatives and US officials includes a 30-day ceasefire that would apply not only to the air and sea but also across all military operations.

Regardless of whether Putin agrees to the ceasefire in the coming days, Ukraine is set to receive renewed military aid from the US. This assistance is particularly vital for bolstering air defense against Russian ballistic missiles and obtaining much-needed intelligence.

It remains uncertain whether Ukraine has made any concessions, such as territorial compromises or troop reductions, which have not been publicly addressed. Such concessions were reportedly requested by Donald Trump as prerequisites for initiating talks with Putin.

In the wake of this breakthrough in negotiations, there is a growing discussion within Ukrainian circles about the extent to which the US may have pressured Ukraine into accepting an agreement. There are concerns that undisclosed details may exist, intentionally kept from public knowledge.

Notably, the situation has become precarious for Ukrainian forces, particularly in regions like Kursk, where Ukraine had previously regained control. The situation in the Donbas region remains complicated, as Russian forces continue to advance, albeit slowly. A comprehensive ceasefire could initially benefit Ukraine, provided it is upheld.

Despite these developments, there are significant logistical challenges facing Russian forces, which may create an opportunity for both sides to reassess their strategies. However, skepticism remains in Ukrainian government circles regarding Putin's willingness to agree to a ceasefire, and even if he does, doubts persist about his commitment to uphold it.

The Ukrainian strategy may involve the expectation that Russia will ultimately reject the ceasefire. This could potentially shift the anger from Trump away from Zelenskyy and redirect it toward Putin, which could lead to renewed pressure and sanctions against the Russian leader.

In the aftermath of the Jeddah summit, optimism is beginning to surface. Trump has expressed hope for a resolution within days, and European leaders are now calling on Russia to take responsibility for the next steps. French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that the onus is now clearly on Russia. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock described the agreement as a potential turning point, while warning that Putin is likely to have anticipated this situation and may respond tactically.