U.S. and Ukraine Conduct Essential Talks in Jeddah Post Major Drone Attack
U.S. and Ukraine engage in critical talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, following Ukraine’s record drone assault on Moscow. Proposals for a ceasefire and security guarantees are central to discussions, with European allies closely monitoring U.S. involvement. Poland also plans increased military training for civilians amid ongoing threats.
The United States and Ukraine are engaged in crucial talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, aimed at finding a resolution to Russia’s ongoing invasion, following Ukraine’s largest drone attack of the conflict. This operation involved the deployment of 343 drones, targeting Moscow and its surrounding areas, resulting in casualties and injuries, signaling Ukraine’s determination to push for a truce with Russia.
Ukrainian officials have suggested a truce that would suspend air and sea attacks, asserting that this latest offensive serves as a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the need for serious consideration of a ceasefire. Andriy Kovalenko, a Ukrainian security official, commented, “The largest drone attack in history was carried out on Moscow and the Moscow region… This is an additional signal to Putin that he should also be interested in a ceasefire in the air.”
President Volodymyr Zelensky, although not present at the discussions, expressed hope that the meeting would rejuvenate “pragmatic” relations with the United States following a recent contentious encounter with former President Donald Trump. Andriy Yermak, leading the Ukrainian delegation, reported that the talks commenced constructively, emphasizing Ukraine’s willingness to achieve peace.
U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz remarked that negotiations were progressing, lasting over six hours, even as military assistance from the United States was momentarily halted post the White House altercation. This has contributed to uncertainty surrounding a bilateral minerals deal and the status of security guarantees sought by Kyiv from Washington.
Prior to the discussions, Yermak underscored the importance of security guarantees, indicating that this topic would be addressed preliminarily. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio displayed an optimistic demeanor but refrained from declaring specific proposals, indicating a preference to listen to Ukraine’s views first before assessing the situation with Russia.
Furthermore, Ukraine’s call for a ceasefire covers the Black Sea, aiming to enhance maritime safety and minimize missile strikes that target civilians. Despite these developments, Putin has made no public concessions regarding the ongoing situation, and Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov advised the Russian public against harboring overly optimistic views about U.S. involvement.
European allies closely monitor the situation, preparing to bolster their defense expenditures should U.S. support for Ukraine diminish. Concurrently, an international defense summit was convened in Paris, uniting military leaders from over 30 nations to devise strategies for deterring potential Russian aggression after a ceasefire.
This gathering, primarily organized by France and Britain, aims to establish a coalition dedicated to Ukraine’s security, coordinating efforts with NATO. French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu affirmed the pivotal role of Ukraine’s military as the main security guarantee, rejecting any notion of demilitarizing it. Political leaders, including Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans, articulated the gravity of the situation, underscoring Putin’s aspirations.
In Poland, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced intentions to expand military training programs for civilians in response to ongoing threats, envisioning training for a larger number of citizens by 2027. Those participating in these initiatives will receive compensation, reflecting a commitment to preparing the population amidst the prevailing uncertainty in geopolitical dynamics.
The discussions in Saudi Arabia represent a critical moment for U.S.-Ukraine relations and the pursuit of peace amidst a protracted conflict. With Ukraine’s significant drone offensive as a backdrop, negotiations focus on establishing a ceasefire and securing essential military and economic support. Meanwhile, European allies prepare for potential shifts in U.S. involvement, underscoring the broader implications of the war on regional stability.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
