**Russia and Ukraine May Agree to 30-Day Ceasefire**
The US is pushing for a 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. This temporary truce may be finalized within days, said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on March 12.
Ukraine agreed to the proposal during talks in Jeddah on March 11. However, the agreement depends on whether Russia agrees to halt hostilities. The US will discuss this proposal with Russia in the coming days.
“We want the shooting to stop,” said Rubio. “We don’t want anyone to be hurt.”
But Reuters reported that Russia is unlikely to agree to a temporary truce. They feel they have the upper hand on the battlefield and see the ceasefire as a trap.
**Russia’s Advances**
Russia has occupied about 20% of Ukraine’s territory. They made steady advances in Donetsk Oblast in late 2024. However, their advance in eastern Ukraine has stalled this year. Moscow’s troops have made rapid gains in Kursk Oblast, a region near the Russian border where Ukraine has been fighting since August 2024.
Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Kursk Oblast on March 12 for the first time since the conflict began.
**Ukraine’s Concerns**
Ukrainian officials are concerned about Russia’s actions. “We will not let anyone forget this crime against Ukraine,” said President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The Ukrainian military is also worried about their losses. “Our people have fought for this, our heroes died,” said Zelensky.
**US and Russia Talks**
The US has warned Russia that they could face financial consequences if they continue to fight in Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump has said that he wants peace, but Russia must agree to a truce.
“It would be very bad for Russia,” said Trump. “I don’t want to do that.”
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