The conflict in Ukraine has entered a new phase as Kyiv adopts a more flexible stance, declaring alongside the United States a willingness to agree to an immediate ceasefire with Moscow for a period of thirty days along the entire frontline between the two sides.

This announcement, made in a joint statement in Jeddah, has been characterized by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio as placing the 'ball in Russia’s court,' a sentiment echoed by European leaders.

Simultaneously, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are engaged in dialogue aimed at thawing relations and pursuing serious discussions to resolve the war in Ukraine.

However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has reiterated that Russia will not accept any NATO forces in Ukraine.

As American officials prepare to visit Russia to discuss the ceasefire agreement, Lavrov has insisted that Russia's objective remains the elimination of the root causes of the conflict, which he designates as crucial to any resolution.

Political analyst Dmitry Bryag from Moscow has stated that the future of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict depends on regional and international power dynamics, diplomatic maneuvers, and the capability of involved parties to find solutions that would lead to lasting peace in the region.

He highlighted the recent surge in diplomatic activity, specifically direct negotiations in Jeddah aimed at concluding the conflict.

Bryag emphasized the role of U.S.-Russia rapprochement in this context, which raises concerns for Kyiv, particularly as it had been excluded from earlier negotiations.

Ukraine expresses apprehensions regarding any settlement that might not fully accommodate its interests.

There are notable discrepancies in the assessments concerning the conflict's resolution.

While Kyiv insists on regaining all territories lost to Russian control since 2014, Washington has suggested approaches that alarm Ukrainian and European allies.

Rubio remarked to reporters that it is 'unlikely Ukraine will reclaim all areas under Russian control since 2014.'

European capitals have exhibited unease over their exclusion from vital discussions surrounding the conflict's conclusion, fearing that the U.S. may pursue a unilateral agreement with Russia that overlooks European security interests.

This divergence illustrates the complexities and challenging nature of the negotiations, where each party's strategic calculations intertwine.

Bryag indicated that the exclusion of European nations from these negotiations might compel them to take independent measures to support Ukraine through increased military aid or new diplomatic initiatives aimed at ensuring Kyiv's involvement and strengthening its position in any future settlement.

Such European initiatives could hinder U.S.-Russian efforts unless there is effective coordination of stances.

Numerous analysts are questioning the current Ukrainian administration’s position and the extent of concessions it is prepared to make, alongside the European response.

Russian political expert Timour Duidar commented that officials in Europe, within the Western coalition, perceive a growing rift with the United States, feeling exposed in the security equation.

Duidar pointed out that the drums of war are not in their favor, particularly considering the U.S. withdrawal from its previous level of support for Ukraine under President Joe Biden.

Consequently, the Ukrainian stance is poised to significantly impact the negotiations.