Ukraine Executes Extensive Drone Assault on Russia Ahead of Key US Talks

Ukraine launched a major drone strike on Russia just prior to critical talks with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia about resolving the ongoing conflict. Russia reported intercepting many drones and noted casualties from the attack. The U.S. delegation, led by prominent officials, seeks to explore Ukraine’s position while aiming to repair relations following military aid suspensions.

Ukraine executed a significant drone attack on Russia shortly before engaging in discussions with the United States aimed at resolving the prolonged conflict that has persisted for three years. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, their forces managed to intercept 337 Ukrainian drones, resulting in two fatalities and 18 injuries across ten different Russian regions. Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, characterized the event as the most considerable assault on the city since the outset of hostilities.

The U.S. and Ukrainian officials commenced their discussions in Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah, with notable attendees including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Middle East Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. This meeting presents a crucial opportunity for Kyiv to mend its strained relationship with the U.S., particularly following disagreements during President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to the White House on February 28 regarding a rare earth mineral deal.

A primary objective of the talks for Ukraine is to persuade Washington to terminate the suspended military aid and resume intelligence sharing that followed previous tensions. Ukrainian representatives indicated plans to propose a ceasefire encompassing the Black Sea, thereby enhancing shipping security, alongside discussions regarding long-range missile strikes against civilian targets in Ukraine and the potential release of prisoners.

In a statement en route to Jeddah, Rubio elucidated that the U.S. delegation would refrain from delineating specific demands for conflict resolution. “I’m not going to set any conditions on what they have to or need to do,” he asserted, emphasizing a desire to gauge Ukraine’s willingness to compromise in comparison to Russian interests.

Notably, President Zelenskyy will not have a direct role in the U.S. discussions. Former President Trump communicated his wish for both nations to seek peace but commented that Ukraine has yet to demonstrate this commitment adequately. The Kremlin has remained silent regarding public concessions, asserting its readiness to halt hostilities only if Ukraine abandons its NATO ambitions and recognizes Russian-occupied territories as part of Russia. Since the commencement of the war, Russia has seized nearly 20% of Ukraine’s land.

The recent drone assault by Ukraine coincides with pivotal diplomatic talks in Saudi Arabia aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict with Russia. Under the leadership of key U.S. officials, these discussions provide Ukraine an essential platform to advocate for the resumption of military aid and to negotiate terms for a potential ceasefire. The situation remains complex, with both nations holding firm to their respective positions amidst broader geopolitical tensions.

Original Source: news3lv.com