Zelensky on Jeddah meeting: U.S. understands Ukraine's arguments

The head of state stated this in his evening video address, according to Ukrinform.

"Our position is absolutely clear: Ukraine has been striving for peace from the very first second of the war, and we want to do everything to achieve peace as soon as possible and in a reliable way -- so that war never returns. Our Ukrainian proposal at this meeting with the Americans consisted of three things: silence in the sky -- no missiles, bombs, or long-range drones; silence at sea; and real confidence-building measures in this entire diplomatic process. That means, first and foremost, the release of prisoners -- our military and civilians -- and the return of Ukrainian children who were taken to Russia. The American side understands our arguments and accepts our proposals. I want to thank President Trump for the constructive nature of the talks between our teams," Zelensky said.

He said that the 30-day ceasefire proposal came from the U.S. It would cover not only missile, drone, and bomb attacks, and operations in the Black Sea but also the entire front line.

"Ukraine accepts this proposal. We see it as positive, we are ready to take this step, and the United States must persuade Russia to do the same. That means we agree, and if the Russians agree -- then silence will take effect immediately," Zelensky said.

Additionally, he noted that a key aspect of the talks was the U.S. commitment to restoring military aid and intelligence-sharing with Ukraine.

"If these agreements take effect, then within these 30 days of silence, we can work with our partners at the level of official documents to establish all aspects needed for a reliable peace and long-term guarantee of security. Ukraine is ready for peace. Russia must now demonstrate whether it is willing to end the war or continue it. The time has come for the full truth," Zelensky said.

The president also thanked Ukrainian diplomats and the team working in Saudi Arabia.

Talks between Ukrainian and U.S. officials took place in Saudi Arabia on March 11.

Photo: Ukraine's Presidential Office