U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has acknowledged the potential in Ukraine’s partial ceasefire proposal ahead of crucial talks in Saudi Arabia. The discussions involve key Ukrainian and American officials, with an emphasis on establishing peace negotiations and addressing military aid issues. The outcome remains uncertain amidst pressures from former President Trump and ongoing territorial conflicts with Russia.
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed optimism regarding Ukraine’s proposal for a partial ceasefire aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Russia. Ahead of key discussions in Saudi Arabia, Rubio indicated that while the plan is a significant concession, it may not be sufficient alone to resolve the conflict. The anticipated ceasefire would involve an aerial and naval truce, as discussed by Ukrainian officials.
During the talks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who arrived in Saudi Arabia to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, will have Andre Yermak, his head of office, leading the Ukrainian delegation along with senior national security and defense officials. Rubio will lead the US delegation, accompanied by National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.
Rubio emphasized the necessity for Ukraine to clarify its intentions regarding a peace proposal and remarked on the importance of both sides acknowledging that war cannot be resolved militarily, but rather through diplomatic dialogue. He declined to impose conditions on Ukraine and expressed a willingness to understand their position relative to Russian demands.
In the backdrop of these negotiations, former President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Zelensky to agree to a ceasefire without assurances of US security support. These discussions represent the first official meeting following tensions during Zelensky’s recent White House visit, which led to a pause in US military aid and intelligence support, pending Ukraine’s commitment to a peace process.
Rubio has expressed hope that the current situation regarding aid could be rectified and that these negotiations would be crucial for future support. He remarked that resources could shift depending on Ukraine’s willingness to engage in a genuine peace process. Special envoy Steve Witkoff, speaking earlier, conveyed expectations for significant progress in the talks and anticipation that Zelensky might return to the US to finalize a minerals deal.
Among the issues listed for discussion in Saudi Arabia are security arrangements for Ukraine and territorial matters. Witkoff affirmed that defensive intelligence sharing has never been halted. Additionally, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer engaged with Trump prior to the talks, reflecting hopes for a positive outcome critical to restoring US support for Ukraine amid the conflict, which has seen Russia occupying significant portions of Ukrainian territory since 2022.
The imminent talks in Saudi Arabia surrounding Ukraine’s partial ceasefire proposal bring forth essential diplomatic dialogues that may pave the way for conflict resolution with Russia. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s comments underline the critical need for both parties to engage constructively in peace negotiations, which could significantly influence the future of military support for Ukraine. As dialogue progresses, the potential for renewed collaboration and understanding between Ukraine and the US remains vital for ending hostilities.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
