US and Ukrainian officials are in Saudi Arabia for meetings aimed at mending ties damaged by the previous US administration’s policies. The talks, led by Andriy Yermak and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, come after a major fallout that halted military support for Ukraine. Key discussions include the potential for a minerals deal and the resumption of intelligence sharing as Ukraine faces heightened Russian military actions. Without US support, Zelenskyy seeks to reinforce European backing while navigating the complexities of the ongoing conflict.
Senior officials from the United States and Ukraine have arrived in Saudi Arabia for crucial discussions aimed at mending a severely strained relationship that has left Kyiv in a precarious position amid the ongoing conflict. The Ukrainian delegation is led by Andriy Yermak, Chief of Staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. They are set to meet with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other senior officials in Jeddah, recognized as a neutral location for these vital talks.
This meeting marks the first formal confrontation between the two governments following a contentious incident at the Oval Office that resulted in President Donald Trump suspending critical military support and intelligence sharing with Ukraine. Although neither president will participate directly in the negotiations, Zelenskyy met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman prior to the discussions, acknowledging the Kingdom’s mediating role between Ukraine and Russia.
Zelenskyy emphasized his commitment to a constructive dialogue, stating, “On our side, we are fully committed to constructive dialogue, and we hope to discuss and agree on the necessary decisions and steps.” He indicated that realistic proposals were available, underscoring the urgency to act swiftly and effectively in the talks.
In the absence of support from its primary ally, Ukraine has faced increased aggression from Russian forces, which have launched missile attacks and attempted to encircle Ukrainian troops in the Kursk region. The White House maintains that Trump’s Ukraine policy aims to create lasting peace. However, critics argue that it primarily pressures Ukraine to concede its mineral resources to the United States in exchange for military support.
Amidst uncertainty over US backing, Zelenskyy has strove to fortify European support. There are growing public expectations for the outcome of the Jeddah meetings. A spokesperson for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed hope for a “positive outcome” that could facilitate the resumption of US aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine.
Trump aide Steve Witkoff has expressed optimism regarding the progress expected from the meetings, particularly concerning a potential minerals deal. However, Rubio has indicated that various details remain to be refined before any agreements are finalized. Reports suggest that the US may require more than just the minerals deal to resume military aid, including concessions from Ukraine regarding territory and internal political matters.
Although European allies have received reassurances about the resumption of US aid, Trump also indicated that he anticipates future cooperation with Zelenskyy. Discussions are expected to include proposals for a peace settlement that would mandate a decrease in active military actions, which Zelenskyy posits as crucial for evaluating Russia’s intent to conclude the conflict.
Despite these efforts, Russian forces continue to intensify their offensive, capturing additional territories in the Kursk region. Ukrainian military leadership remains steadfast, rejecting claims of imminent encirclement by Russian troops and asserting the enemy’s significant losses during ongoing confrontations.
Trump has further suggested skepticism regarding Ukraine’s long-term ability to sustain its defense against Russia, reiterating claims that the Biden administration has enabled excessive domestic resource extraction from the US. He described Zelenskyy as intelligent and tough, yet criticized him for a perceived lack of gratitude for past assistance.
In summary, the meetings in Saudi Arabia represent a critical juncture for US-Ukraine relations, holding significant implications for military, economic, and political dynamics in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The outcomes of these discussions may determine the extent to which the two nations can realign their cooperation against a backdrop of heightened military pressure from Moscow and internal strife within Ukraine’s leadership.
The ongoing meetings in Saudi Arabia signify a pivotal opportunity for the United States and Ukraine to mend their frayed relations following a tumultuous period marked by loss of military support from Washington. As both countries navigate the complexities of international diplomacy amid war, the discussions will be instrumental in establishing future collaboration and addressing security concerns. The evolving dynamics highlight the critical nature of the bilateral relationship, which remains essential for Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
