Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says his country believes the US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in the war with Russia is "positive." He said it covers the frontline in the conflict, not just fighting by air and sea.
"Ukraine welcomes this proposal ... we are ready to take such a step. The US has to convince Russia to do this," Zelenskyy said, adding that "the American side understands our arguments."
Zelenskyy made the comments in his evening address, following a meeting between US officials and a Ukrainian delegation in Saudi Arabia.
A top aide to Zelenskyy said options for security guarantees to Ukraine were also discussed with the US team, without providing more details.
Trump to talk to Putin over Ukraine ceasefire agreement
US President Donald Trump said he planned to speak to Russia President Vladimir Putin directly after Kyiv signaled that it was open to a 30-day ceasefire in the war with Russia.
Russia must agree to the ceasefire first.
"It takes two to tango as they say," Trump said, adding he hoped Putin would agree to the offer.
According to Trump, the Russian leader giving his agreement to the US offer would be "75% of the way."
Macron, Starmer hail Ukraine's backing of ceasefire proposal
French President Emmanuel Macron has welcomed the "progress" made in peace talks between Ukraine and the US on a possible ceasefire in the war with Russia.
"The ball is now clearly in the Russian court," Macron said on X.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also voiced his support for the proposal, calling it a "remarkable breakthrough."
"We are ready to bring an end to this war," Starmer said in a statement.
Starmer will convene a phone call of leaders from what he has dubbed the "coalition of the willing" on Saturday.
The group is expected to discuss peacekeeping efforts aimed at deterring Russia from staging further attacks on Ukraine if a deal to end the conflict is reached.
"We are ready to help bring an end to this war in a just and permanent way that allows Ukraine to enjoy its freedom," he said.
'Ball is now in Russia's court,' European leaders say
European leaders have welcomed the news that Ukraine has agreed to a proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in the war with Russia.
"This is a positive development that can be a step towards a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine," European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen and European Coucil chief Antonio Costa wrote on X.
"The ball is now in Russia's court."
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called it "an important step towards peace."
"Europe stands ready to help reach a just and lasting peace," he added.
Poland's defense minister, Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, said his country was ready to resume its role as a hub for US aid to Ukraine.
"We maintain operational capability all the time and we are fully prepared to resume American support," he told Polish broadcaster TVN24.
