US-Ukraine Diplomatic Efforts in Saudi Arabia: Aiming for Military Aid Resumption
High-stakes talks between Ukrainian officials and US counterparts in Saudi Arabia aim to resume US military aid and intelligence-sharing. President Zelenskyy seeks a partial ceasefire as part of renewed negotiations to facilitate support from Washington. These discussions emerge amidst strategic shifts following a previous deterioration in US-Ukraine relations.
Ukrainian officials are preparing for crucial discussions with US representatives in Saudi Arabia, intending to convince Washington to resume intelligence-sharing and military aid which were halted by the Trump administration. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy aims to demonstrate Ukraine’s readiness for prompt negotiations to end the conflict with Russia. Reports suggest that Ukrainian negotiators may propose a partial ceasefire to potentially regain US support.
This diplomatic engagement follows Ukraine’s withdrawal from Russian-controlled territory in the Kursk region, highlighting the impact of the US aid suspension. To restore US support, Ukraine emphasizes the importance of advancing ceasefire discussions. Zelenskyy is set to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman prior to the formal negotiations. The delegation will include key Ukrainian figures such as Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will participate in the talks, aiming to further the goal of concluding the Russia-Ukraine war. These negotiations come in the wake of tensions experienced during a meeting at the White House where differences in strategic approaches were evident. Consequently, Ukrainian officials are adopting a more conciliatory approach to repair relations with Washington.
Despite calls for renewed military support, Trump has expressed hesitance in reengaging with Ukraine, emphasizing that a minerals agreement would not suffice to restore aid without Ukraine altering its stance on peace talks. European allies have voiced support for Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts, and there is an ongoing discussion among key nations regarding future backing depending on the outcome of ceasefire negotiations.
To facilitate US assistance, Ukraine introduced a phased ceasefire proposal, starting with halting aerial and naval operations, followed by prisoner exchanges, among other measures. Notably, Moscow has expressed skepticism regarding these proposals, with officials asserting that any respite must lead to a conclusive resolution.
In summary, the upcoming US-Ukraine discussions in Saudi Arabia represent a critical effort by Ukrainian officials to restore military and intelligence support from Washington. The proposed phased ceasefire approach aims to address both humanitarian and military concerns while fostering negotiations with Russia. The response from both the US and Russia will significantly influence Ukraine’s path forward and its diplomatic relations with key global players.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
