11-3-2025 (KYIV) Ukraine is set to unveil a limited ceasefire proposal to American officials in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, following a marked deterioration in US-Ukrainian relations under the Trump administration’s renewed leadership.
The timing proves particularly delicate, as Ukraine has just launched its most ambitious aerial offensive to date, with Russian authorities reporting the interception of 337 drones across their territory. Moscow’s outskirts bore the brunt of the assault, resulting in one fatality and three casualties, according to regional governor Andrei Vorobyov.
The diplomatic landscape has shifted dramatically since President Zelensky’s contentious White House reception, where he faced unprecedented criticism. The subsequent suspension of American military support, including crucial intelligence sharing, has forced Kyiv to reassess its strategic position.
A Ukrainian diplomat, speaking anonymously, revealed their proposal focuses on establishing monitored ceasefires in aerial and maritime domains. This measured approach appears to align with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s vision for conflict resolution, though he emphasises the necessity for mutual concessions.
The Saudi dimension adds another layer to the diplomatic endeavour, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman engaging in discussions about prisoner exchanges and the alleged deportation of Ukrainian children. These talks preceded Zelensky’s departure, leaving his top advisers to handle the crucial negotiations with American officials.
The American delegation, led by Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, approaches these talks following their groundbreaking meeting with Russian counterparts last month – a diplomatic channel previously frozen under the Biden administration.
Trump’s administration has taken an unconventional approach, demanding unprecedented concessions including access to Ukraine’s mineral resources as compensation for previous military aid. This stance has created ripples through international diplomatic circles, particularly regarding the upcoming G7 foreign ministers’ meeting, where traditional anti-Russian rhetoric is being reconsidered.
The conflict’s trajectory has seen Russia intensifying infrastructure attacks and reclaiming villages in the Kursk region, whilst Ukraine demonstrates its enhanced strike capabilities deep within Russian territory. These developments underscore the complex military situation that any ceasefire agreement must address.
