U.S. Officials Head to Saudi Arabia for Talks on Ukraine Conflict as Rubio Downplays Breakthrough Potential
U.S. officials are preparing for talks in Saudi Arabia with Russian diplomats to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has set realistic expectations for the negotiations, emphasizing the need for a process rather than an immediate solution. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has asserted that no agreements involving Ukraine should be made without its participation, stressing the importance of ongoing U.S. military support against Russian advances.
Senior U.S. officials are set to engage in discussions with Russian diplomats in Saudi Arabia regarding the conflict in Ukraine, although Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned against expecting immediate breakthroughs. In a recent interview, he noted that achieving peace entails a gradual process rather than a single meeting solution. Rubio expressed hope that the negotiations could lead to a sustainable and fair resolution, contingent upon Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s genuine willingness to engage in discussions.
The delegation heading to Riyadh includes U.S. national security adviser Mike Waltz and Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, alongside Ukrainian representatives preparing for a potential visit from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. However, uncertainties surround the specifics of the talks, as Rubio indicated no details have been confirmed concerning Russia’s involvement.
President Trump’s previous conversation with Putin caught NATO allies and Ukraine off-guard, prompting concerns about discussions happening without Ukrainian input. Zelenskyy firmly stated that he would reject any agreements made between the U.S. and Russia regarding Ukraine’s future, emphasizing the need for Ukraine’s participation in any negotiations.
In a separate interview, Zelenskyy expressed skepticism about Putin’s intentions, labeling him a liar regarding his commitment to peace. He conveyed to President Trump his belief that without ongoing support from the United States, Ukraine would have considerably diminished chances of overcoming Russian forces. As of now, Russia occupies approximately 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including Crimea and regions seized since the conflict’s escalation in February 2022.
The ongoing discussions between U.S. officials and Russian diplomats in Saudi Arabia seek to address the protracted war in Ukraine. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that peace negotiations are complex and require substantial commitment from both sides. Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy insists on Ukraine’s involvement in any discussions about its future, highlighting concerns over Russian intentions and the critical role of U.S. support in Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
