U.S. and Ukrainian Officials Gather in Saudi Arabia for War Negotiations Preparation
U.S. and Ukrainian officials have met in Saudi Arabia to discuss potential negotiations to end the war with Russia. President Zelenskyy’s possible visit is intended to strengthen economic ties in the region. However, key Ukrainian officials have clarified that direct meetings with Russian representatives are not planned until a comprehensive peace strategy is developed.
U.S. and Ukrainian officials have convened in Saudi Arabia as preparations intensify for a potential visit by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy amid speculation surrounding upcoming discussions to resolve Russia’s war in Ukraine. Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko confirmed the delegation’s arrival but did not indicate whether it is directly connected to the proposed U.S.-Russia talks. She emphasized that strengthening economic relations and finalizing significant agreements in the region remain the delegation’s primary focus.
Notably, Andriy Yermak, a senior advisor to President Zelenskyy, stated that Ukrainian and Russian representatives are not expected to meet imminently. He underscored the necessity of developing a comprehensive plan for achieving a just peace before engaging directly with Russian officials. Meanwhile, Mykhailo Podolyak, also an advisor to Zelenskyy, asserted that Ukraine will not partake in any discussions involving Russia and the United States in Saudi Arabia, reiterating the absence of negotiable terms.
The comments from Svyrydenko coincided with an announcement from Steve Witkoff, a close associate of former President Donald Trump, indicating imminent high-level talks in Saudi Arabia aimed at negotiating an end to the conflict. Witkoff and national security adviser Mike Waltz are tasked with leading these discussions, aiming to facilitate progress in resolving the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Following a significant phone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump expressed mutual agreement to commence negotiations concerning the conflict. This shift in diplomatic strategy represents a substantial alteration in U.S. foreign policy and may signal pivotal changes for Ukraine and its relations within Europe.
President Zelenskyy remains firm in his position that Ukraine cannot be excluded from any negotiations regarding its future. European nations have also emphasized the need for their inclusion in the negotiation process. Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine initiated by Russia in February 2022, Putin has faced significant isolation from Western countries, especially following the International Criminal Court’s warrant for his arrest in 2023.
The recent meetings between U.S. and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia signify a critical step in addressing the ongoing conflict with Russia. While Ukrainian representatives are not currently engaging in direct negotiations with Russia, the emphasis on economic relations and building trust remains paramount. The international diplomatic landscape continues to evolve, with Zelenskyy’s insistence on Ukraine’s involvement in future discussions highlighting the complexity of achieving a lasting peace.
Original Source: apnews.com
