Post US-Ukraine Talks, Russia Emphasizes Its Role in Making Decisions

Russia reacted to the recent diplomatic discussions between the United States and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing that the formation of its position on the ongoing war in Ukraine does not take place abroad through some agreements or efforts of certain parties, but within Russia itself.

In a statement aired on Sputnik radio, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova made it clear that Russia’s stance on the proposed ceasefire will not be influenced by external agreements or negotiations.

“The position of the Russian Federation cannot be determined abroad, due to some agreements or efforts of some parties," TASS reported, citing Zakharova. "The Russian position can only be determined within the Russian Federation."

Despite this firm stance, Zakharova did not dismiss the possibility of Russia engaging in talks with US representatives in the near future.

Her statement followed nine-and-a-half-hour negotiations between US and Ukrainian delegations in Jeddah on Tuesday. The outcome of the meeting saw Ukraine expressing willingness to accept the US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire.

In response, Washington announced it would lift its pause on intelligence-sharing and resume providing military aid to Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that the ceasefire agreement would cover not only missile, drone, and bomb attacks but also military engagements along the entire front line.

However, Zelensky was quick to clarify that Ukraine would not agree to a unilateral ceasefire, signaling that any truce would require reciprocity from Russia.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Washington would officially present the ceasefire proposal to Russia, expressing hope that Moscow would accept the terms. 

"Our hope is that the Russians will say yes," Rubio said, adding that "the ball is now in their court."

Following the talks, US President Donald Trump voiced optimism that Russian President Vladimir Putin would consider the 30-day ceasefire agreement. Trump revealed plans to discuss the matter with Putin in the coming days.

Speaking to reporters, Trump also mentioned his intention to invite Zelensky back to the White House. Their last meeting in the Oval Office ended with tensions, as Zelensky left Washington without finalizing a critical minerals deal with the US.

Meanwhile, US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz has engaged in a phone discussion with his Russian counterpart regarding the ceasefire proposal, the White House confirmed. Additionally, Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, has arrived in Moscow to further the discussions.

“We urge the Russians to sign onto this plan,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, adding that President Trump expects Russia to “help us run this into the end zone.”