US and Ukrainian officials have started talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Relations between the two nations have worsened in recent weeks. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio leads the American delegation, while Andriy Yermak, chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, represents Ukraine.

Notably, Ukraine plans to propose a partial ceasefire to halt aerial and naval combat. In addition, both sides will discuss the suspended US military aid and intelligence-sharing.

Trump’s Confrontation with Zelenskyy

Last month, tensions escalated when President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance confronted Zelenskyy at the White House. They criticized him for demanding security guarantees and blaming Russia for the war.

As a result, Trump expelled Zelenskyy from the White House. Shortly after, he suspended military aid and intelligence-sharing. Meanwhile, Russia intensified attacks in Ukraine’s Sumy region and Russia’s Kursk province.

Trump’s Sudden Shift on Ukraine

For a long time, Trump had questioned US support for Ukraine. However, in recent weeks, his stance has become openly hostile. He falsely accused Ukraine of starting the war. Moreover, he called Zelenskyy a “dictator” and claimed Putin wants peace.

Consequently, Ukraine and its European allies are deeply alarmed. They see Russian aggression as the biggest security threat since World War II.

Zelenskyy Hopes to Restore Ties

Despite the setbacks, Zelenskyy remains hopeful. Earlier in Jeddah, he called for constructive talks.

“We hope for practical outcomes. Ukraine’s position in these talks will be fully constructive,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).

US Pressures Ukraine, Spares Russia

Meanwhile, Rubio stated that Ukraine must surrender some land to Russia for peace. However, he made no demands on Russia.

At the same time, the Trump administration has intensified pressure on Ukraine. It has cut military support, halted intelligence-sharing, and even hinted at removing Zelenskyy. In contrast, it has taken no action against Russia.

US Perspective on a Ceasefire

According to Rubio, both sides must compromise for peace.

“We have to understand the Ukrainian position and just have a general idea of what concessions they’d be willing to make, because you’re not going to get a ceasefire and an end to this war unless both sides make concessions… The Russians can’t conquer all of Ukraine, and obviously, it’ll be very difficult for Ukraine in any reasonable time period to sort of force the Russians back all the way to where they were in 2014,” he said.

Overall, the talks in Jeddah remain uncertain. Ukraine hopes to rebuild its alliance with the US. However, the US has shifted its stance and now leans toward Russia. The outcome of these discussions will significantly impact Ukraine’s future and its relationship with its strongest ally.