Germany's outgoing chancellor welcomes Ukraine ceasefire proposal

In addition, the statement sends out a positive signal directly from the leaders of Ukraine and the United States regarding the signing of the minerals deal. Moreover, it explicitly links this agreement to the US guarantee of Ukraine's long-term prosperity and security. This is what the Ukrainian side has sought,

he added

It's just an attempt to start the process of ending the war fairly. It is also a step that demonstrates who is genuinely interested in peace,

he said

Ukraine expressed readiness to accept the U.S. proposal to enact an immediate, interim 30-day ceasefire, which can be extended by mutual agreement of the parties, and which is subject to acceptance and concurrent implementation by the Russian Federation. The United States will communicate to Russia that Russian reciprocity is the key to achieving peace."

In part, the joint statement read