The past week in diplomacy showcased how to derail an unwanted ceasefire. In Jeddah, Ukraine skillfully maneuvered against US President Trump’s push for peace, offering a meaningless ceasefire proposal to gain military aid and flatter Trump’s ego. This allowed Trump to claim a hollow victory, further complicating negotiations.
The Americans fell for Ukraine’s stalling tactics and Trump’s ego-stroking, eventually endorsing a 30-day ceasefire plan by Britain and France. However, Russia saw through it, understanding it gave Ukraine strategic advantages without real concessions in return.
Putin responded strategically, neither accepting nor rejecting the proposal but setting conditions to halt US military aid and Ukrainian mobilization. This move challenged Ukraine further and returned the diplomatic ball to Kiev.
A viable ceasefire should include binding guarantees and be a genuine step toward peace. Russia needs to see actionable commitments from Ukraine, like lifting martial law and scheduling elections. The coming weeks will determine if the ceasefire proposal evolves into lasting peace or remains a political play, leaving the outcomes uncertain as talks continue between Washington, Kiev, and Moscow.
