Ukraine Peace Talks Hopes as Zelensky Meets Saudi Crown Prince

Ukrainian President Zelensky met with Saudi Crown Prince Salman in Jeddah, aligning with US-Ukrainian talks aimed at ending the conflict with Russia. Key themes included the shift in US policy, Ukraine’s call for concessions, and the potential signing of a minerals deal. The meeting is anticipated to influence future US support while Russia continues military actions against Ukraine.

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has engaged in talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah, coinciding with discussions between Ukrainian and US officials focused on resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. The Crown Prince expressed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting international efforts aimed at establishing peace in Ukraine, as reported by the Saudi state news agency.

The United States, historically a principal ally of Ukraine, has shifted its policy towards seeking a swift conclusion to the conflict. This change includes direct engagement with Russia while halting military assistance and intelligence sharing, which has implications for Ukraine’s security following Russia’s invasion in 2022. Subsequently, Ukraine has advocated for more pragmatic diplomatic relations after recent challenges during Zelensky’s meeting with US President Donald Trump.

This meeting marks the first official dialogue involving US and Ukrainian officials following Zelensky’s previous unsuccessful meeting at the White House. Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism for substantial progress in the upcoming negotiations, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized a measured approach, suggesting that success could occur even without a formal agreement. He highlighted the importance of assessing Ukraine’s willingness to make concessions.

Under significant pressure from the Trump administration, Zelensky has sought to convey Ukraine’s urgency in concluding the war, even amidst the suspension of crucial US security guarantees. Despite not attending the discussions himself, he asserted that his team would engage in constructive deliberations. He stated that realistic proposals were on the table, emphasizing the importance of prompt and effective action.

US officials aim to assess whether Ukraine is genuinely interested in achieving a realistic peace agreement, acknowledging that the outcome of the talks could affect further US support. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed hope that these discussions would lead to the renewal of US aid to Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces face ongoing threats, with recent Russian airstrikes targeting Kyiv prompted by escalating tensions in the region.

Zelensky has called for a cessation of hostilities and prisoner exchanges as measures to test Russia’s commitment to peace. Nevertheless, Russia has dismissed proposals for a temporary truce, alleging that such moves would enable Ukraine to regroup militarily. Zelensky has also indicated readiness to sign a minerals deal with the US, crucial for maintaining American backing as the conflict continues.

In summary, President Zelensky’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies ongoing international efforts to resolve the war in Ukraine. The shifting US policy towards engaging directly with Russia while reassessing military support presents both challenges and opportunities for Ukraine. The upcoming talks are pivotal in determining Ukraine’s position on concessions and its capacity to secure critical agreements that may pave the way for lasting peace. Amidst ongoing military pressures, the discourse around a truce and potential mineral deals underscores the complexities of the situation.

Original Source: www.indailyqld.com.au