On March 12, 2025, US Vice President James Vance confirmed that negotiations between Washington and Moscow to resolve the conflict in Ukraine were in an active phase. According to him, communication was taking place both by phone and in person, and the American delegation would stay in the Russian capital for the next two days to continue the dialogue. The statement came amid the Trump administration's efforts to achieve a ceasefire, which has become one of the key topics since his return to the White House.

On the same day, US President Donald Trump made a series of statements clarifying Washington's position. He noted that there had been no direct talks with the Russian leadership on the substance of the ceasefire, but there were "positive signals" indicating a readiness for dialogue. Trump stressed that the US has financial instruments to pressure Russia, but their use is currently considered inappropriate, as it could undermine efforts to achieve peace. In his opinion, the introduction of new sanctions is not required at this stage. The President also revealed that during contacts with Moscow, not only the terms of the ceasefire are discussed, but also the territorial aspects of the conflict.

Trump particularly highlighted the change in Kyiv's position.

"Zelensky didn't want peace before, but now he has agreed" “he said, indicating the Ukrainian leader’s readiness to compromise.

However, the US president warned that the situation remains extremely tense and could lead to a global escalation. According to him, the risk of a third world war arose due to the "incompetence" of the previous administration of Joe Biden, which he repeatedly emphasized in his speeches.

These statements coincided with preparations for technical talks announced by Zelensky’s chief of staff Andriy Yermak for March 17–23. According to Reuters, the US proposed a 30-day ceasefire after consultations in Jeddah, and Trump intends to discuss it with Vladimir Putin in person. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) notes that Russia’s success in the Kursk region, where more than 1100 square kilometers have been liberated, strengthens its position ahead of the dialogue. Meanwhile, Politico reports that Washington is considering sanctions relief as part of the deal, which could be a key element in the settlement, despite ongoing territorial disagreements. As long as the talks continue, their outcome remains decisive for the future of the conflict.