Ukraine plans to propose aerial and naval ceasefires with Russia during U.S. talks in Saudi Arabia this week. This meeting marks the first interaction since tensions arose between President Zelenskyy and former President Trump, leading to the suspension of military aid to Ukraine. Zelenskyy asserts that peace remains Ukraine’s primary goal, attributing the conflict’s continuation to Russia’s actions.
In a significant diplomatic move, Ukraine is set to propose both aerial and naval ceasefires with Russia during forthcoming talks with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia. This meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, represents the first interaction between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. representatives since a controversial exchange with former President Donald Trump that resulted in the suspension of U.S. military aid to Ukraine.
A Ukrainian official, who spoke to AFP on the condition of anonymity, indicated that the proposed ceasefires are not only straightforward to implement but also easier to monitor, providing a potential initial step toward de-escalation. President Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s ongoing desire for peace, attributing the persistence of the conflict solely to Russia’s actions.
During these negotiations, Zelenskyy is expected to meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before his team engages with American officials. The Ukrainian President underscored the need for constructive dialogue while ensuring Ukraine’s national interests are fully addressed. U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff has expressed that Washington aims to establish a framework for peace and an initial ceasefire during this diplomatic dialogue.
As U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz are set to join the talks, it is crucial that Ukraine articulates its position clearly. Zelenskyy’s negotiating team will include prominent figures such as Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga and Defence Minister Rustem Umerov. Meanwhile, reports note that the U.S. has halted military aid, a situation that may grant Russia a significant strategic advantage in the ongoing conflict.
Additionally, Ukraine’s European allies have recently pledged to increase defense spending. Zelenskyy’s previous encounter with Trump soured relations, leaving him unable to sign a minerals deal with the U.S. Negotiations in Saudi Arabia might provide a fresh opportunity for diplomatic engagement, especially as both nations aim for a mutually beneficial resolution.
The upcoming Ukraine-U.S. talks in Saudi Arabia are crucial for addressing the ongoing conflict with Russia. By proposing a ceasefire, Ukraine aims to facilitate a dialogue focused on peace while securing necessary military support from the U.S. The successful outcome of these discussions could signify a pivotal moment in the war, depending on the commitment of both sides to find common ground and rectify prior misunderstandings.
Original Source: www.news18.com
