Ukraine is set to present a plan for a partial ceasefire with Russia to the United States on Tuesday, in a bid to regain support from its key benefactor amid a turbulent trade and military landscape. The proposal comes at a time when the conflict continues to intensify, with Russia ramping up attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and Kyiv striking back—most notably, an overnight drone attack on Moscow that resulted in casualties.
The ceasefire plan, which focuses on establishing a “ceasefire in the sky” and at sea, is seen as a limited yet practical concession that could pave the way for broader peace negotiations. A senior Ukrainian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, explained that these options are easier to implement, monitor, and could serve as the starting point for further talks.
The move follows a series of high-stakes diplomatic engagements. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz are set to join talks in Saudi Arabia, where the US aims to iron out unresolved issues including the suspension of military aid and intelligence sharing—a policy shift that followed a public clash between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky last month. Zelensky, who recently expressed regret over the confrontation and even sent an apology, is represented at the talks by his senior aides rather than appearing in person.
Rubio indicated that while the proposal alone may not secure a complete ceasefire, it represents the kind of concession necessary for ending the conflict. “You’re not going to get a ceasefire and an end to this war unless both sides make concessions,” he remarked, adding that such steps would help stabilize the region. He also referenced historical benchmarks, noting that Ukraine cannot realistically force Russia back to the 2014 status quo.
In parallel to the ceasefire discussions, Ukraine has been negotiating with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman over conditions for any permanent peace deal. Topics under discussion include the release of prisoners, the return of children allegedly abducted by Moscow, and the establishment of security guarantees to prevent future conflicts.
Rubio, who recently met with Russian counterparts in Saudi Arabia, stressed that while he does not expect a final agreement in Jeddah, the ideas presented by Ukraine will be taken back to Moscow. Trump, meanwhile, continues to threaten additional sanctions against Russia as its strikes on Ukraine persist.
Amid these high-level talks, tensions remain high. Some European leaders have criticized Trump’s abrupt policy shifts, with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock describing the situation as “unspeakable” and warning that Europe will need to shoulder greater responsibility moving forward. French senator Claude Malhuret also condemned what he described as Trump’s failure to see through Kremlin propaganda, asserting that the current strategy is a strategic mistake.
