Optimism Grows Over Ukraine Talks as Witkoff Highlights Need for Peaceful Resolution
U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff conveyed optimism for peace negotiations in Saudi Arabia, indicating that President Putin seeks an end to hostilities. He emphasized the importance of a ceasefire and communication in achieving peace, while dismissing concerns regarding Russia’s ambitions in Europe. Upcoming meetings involve talks with U.S. and Ukrainian representatives, focusing mainly on technical issues.
On Sunday, U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism regarding the upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Witkoff mentioned that he perceives Russian President Vladimir Putin as someone who desires peace, as reported by Reuters. He stated, “I think that you’re going to see in Saudi Arabia on Monday some real progress, particularly as it affects a Black Sea ceasefire on ships between both countries.”
Witkoff suggested that a ceasefire in the Black Sea could potentially lead to a broader cessation of hostilities. He addressed concerns voiced by EU nations regarding the possibility that such an agreement might empower Moscow for further aggression, asserting, “I just don’t see that he wants to take all of Europe. This is a much different situation than it was in World War II. In World War II, there was no NATO.”
Furthermore, the Special Envoy underscored the urgency of halting violence, emphasizing, “Let’s end this thing. You can’t end things without communicating with both sides, understanding what each of them needs, and then trying to bring them together, and that’s what we’re doing.”
In related news, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that discussions with American representatives will resume in Saudi Arabia on March 24, focusing on technical matters. While U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg indicated plans for American teams to participate in indirect negotiations with Ukrainian and Russian officials, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson noted that the upcoming meeting will be viewed primarily as a bilateral engagement with U.S. representatives, devoid of direct discussions with Russia.
In summary, U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff expressed a positive outlook for the impending negotiations in Saudi Arabia, noting Putin’s potential readiness for peace. He highlighted the need for a ceasefire, addressed the geopolitical context without alarm regarding territorial ambitions, and stressed the necessity of dialogue. The talks scheduled for March 24 may pave the way for critical developments in the Ukraine conflict.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
