Zelensky Denounces Russian Pre-Conditions Ahead of Key…

Ukrainian President Zelensky indicated upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia with U.S. officials aimed at negotiating a cease-fire with Russia. He criticized Russian preconditions regarding military assistance and lamented the removal of Ukraine’s NATO membership from discussions. Concurrently, Russia is participating in separate negotiations, emphasizing their firm stance against concessions from Kyiv. Zelensky asserted Ukraine’s ownership of its power infrastructure amidst U.S. discussions on modernization efforts.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukrainian and U.S. officials are set to convene in Saudi Arabia on Monday to discuss strategies to end the ongoing war with Russia. The meeting will feature technical teams working to clarify the terms for a cease-fire focused on energy and infrastructure. Zelensky mentioned that a formal U.S. diplomatic approach would ensue to address any discrepancies with Moscow’s position.

During a press conference in Oslo, Zelensky delineated Ukraine’s intention to present a list of civilian infrastructure deemed off-limits, ensuring alignment with the expected agreement among the negotiating parties next week. However, he expressed discontent with Russia’s preconditions demanding that the U.S. cease military assistance to Ukraine, emphasizing that such conditions hinder progress by prolonging conflict.

Zelensky noted that Russia has succeeded in removing NATO membership discussions from the negotiation table, which he finds troubling. He remarked, “I believe that you can’t just give it away to the Russians… It’s not right.” Despite Ukraine’s eagerness to join NATO, he feels that the United States is not adequately supporting this goal.

Russia has confirmed its participation in separate talks with the U.S. in Riyadh, led by a team of negotiators including Senator Grigory Karasin. Discussions are expected to revive the 2022 Black Sea initiative, which facilitated the export of Ukrainian grain and Russian fertilizers. However, a Russian official stated that concessions from Kyiv appear unlikely, insisting that U.S. military support for Ukraine must cease.

Zelensky also ruled out U.S. ownership of Ukraine’s power plants as protective measures during the negotiations. He stressed that the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station remains a state-owned facility belonging to Ukraine, stating, “If it does not belong to Ukraine, it won’t work for anyone. It would be illegal.” Nonetheless, he stated that Ukraine is open to U.S. discussions focused on modernizing the facility.

Notably, Zelensky dismissed rumors regarding U.S. intentions to take over Ukraine’s energy sector, emphasizing that Ukraine’s energy infrastructure is largely state-owned and that integration with Europe’s energy grid is pivotal for energy security. He believes such integration provides substantial guarantees for Ukraine’s energy future.

In summary, President Zelensky’s remarks highlight the complex dynamics of the upcoming talks between Ukraine and the United States regarding ending the war with Russia. His concerns over Russian demands, NATO’s stance on Ukraine’s membership, and the significance of Ukrainian energy infrastructure underscore the multifaceted challenges facing diplomatic negotiations. Ensuring Ukraine’s territorial integrity and energy security remains a priority as both nations navigate these critical discussions.

Original Source: www.upi.com