One high-ranking source said, “Putin can’t easily agree to this as it stands. He’s in a strong position because Russia is advancing.”
The source warned that without guarantees, Russia’s stance could weaken fast if fighting stops.
Another senior official called the ceasefire proposal a “trap” from Moscow’s perspective, arguing Putin would find it tough to halt the war without firm assurances or pledges.
A third source framed it as the U.S. dressing up its resumption of military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine with a ceasefire offer.
Ukraine-U.S. talks in Saudi Arabia
U.S.-Ukraine negotiations took place in Jeddah on March 11, where Kyiv agreed to the ceasefire idea. Ukrainian delegates included Presidential Office head Andriy Yermak, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, while the United States sent Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed Ukraine’s readiness for a temporary truce, with Rubio saying Washington would relay the proposal to Moscow through multiple channels.
Ukraine’s Presidential Office noted the Jeddah talks led to the U.S. immediately lifting its intelligence-sharing pause and restoring security aid. The sides also agreed to swiftly finalize a deal on critical mineral resource development.