Moscow wary of ‘jumping the gun’ after the U.S. and Ukraine unite over a ceasefire deal

Key Takeaways:

• U.S. and Ukraine Agree to Ceasefire: A 30-day temporary ceasefire has been proposed, pending Russia’s acceptance.
• Russia Seeks More Details: The Kremlin is cautious, requiring further information before making a decision.
• Potential Putin-Trump Communication: A possible dialogue could influence Russia’s response.
• Resumption of U.S. Military Aid to Ukraine: The U.S. plans to lift its pause on aid and intelligence-sharing.
• Improved U.S.-Russia Relations Under Trump: Warmer relations may impact diplomatic negotiations.

Moscow’s Cautious Response to Ceasefire Proposal

All eyes were on Moscow as the Kremlin broke its silence on Wednesday, delivering an initial reaction to a unilateral ceasefire agreement between the United States and Ukraine. The proposal, which calls for an immediate 30-day temporary ceasefire in the ongoing conflict, awaits Russia’s acceptance to take effect.

Background on the U.S.-Ukraine Agreement

Talks between U.S. and Ukrainian officials in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, concluded on Tuesday with Ukraine agreeing to the ceasefire negotiated by the U.S. As part of the plan, the United States will lift its pause on military aid to Ukraine and resume intelligence-sharing activities that had been halted in recent weeks. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the next move rests with Russia, stating, “The ball is now in Russia’s court.”

The Kremlin’s Initial Reaction

Responding to the proposal, Kremlin Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov conveyed a cautious stance. “You are jumping the gun,” Peskov told reporters. “We have contacts scheduled with the Americans, and then we’ll see.” He added that Moscow is carefully studying the statements and will familiarize itself with the details provided by U.S. negotiators. “We proceed from the fact that, as was said yesterday in Jeddah, Secretary of State Rubio and National Security Advisor Waltz will inform us via various channels these days about the details of the negotiations that took place,” he remarked.

Potential Dialogue Between Putin and Trump

Peskov signaled that a phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump is not out of the question. “If such a need arises, it will be organized very quickly,” he assured. “The existing channels for dialogue with the Americans allow this to be done rather swiftly.” Such high-level communication could play a crucial role in determining Moscow’s response to the ceasefire proposal.

Resumption of U.S. Support to Ukraine

The ceasefire agreement includes the U.S. lifting its pause on military aid to Ukraine and restarting intelligence-sharing operations. This move marks a significant shift in the U.S.’s involvement in the conflict and signals renewed support for Ukraine amid ongoing tensions.

Evolving International Relations

The relationship between Moscow and the Trump administration has seen improvements compared to the estrangement experienced during President Joe Biden’s tenure. Russia has noted the thawing of relations as a positive development. Meanwhile, tensions between Washington and Kyiv have escalated, culminating in a heated exchange between Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy in late February.

The Road Ahead

As the international community watches closely, Russia’s decision on the ceasefire proposal remains pivotal. The resumption of U.S. military aid to Ukraine adds pressure on Moscow to demonstrate its commitment to resolving the conflict. The potential for high-level discussions between Putin and Trump may influence the outcome and set the stage for future diplomatic efforts.

The resumption of diplomatic relations and military support between the U.S. and Ukraine has put the spotlight on Russia. The world waits to see whether Moscow will accept the ceasefire and take a step toward ending the prolonged conflict.