Ukraine Peace Talks: Zelensky Engages with Saudi Arabia Ahead of Critical Discussions

President Zelensky’s meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman precedes important US-Ukraine talks aimed at resolving the conflict with Russia. The United States has shifted its policy, focusing on a rapid resolution and evaluating Kyiv’s concession readiness. While optimism exists regarding potential agreements, ongoing military actions and Russia’s resistance to foreign military involvement pose significant challenges to achieving peace.

President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah, prior to significant discussions between Ukrainian and US officials aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Russia. The Crown Prince emphasized Saudi Arabia’s unwavering support for international initiatives seeking a resolution to Ukraine’s crisis, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

The United States, which has been a crucial ally for Ukraine, has recently altered its strategy regarding the war, aiming for a prompt resolution by engaging with Moscow and suspending military assistance and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, following the Russian invasion in 2022. Ukraine has since sought more pragmatic relations in light of prior disappointments in its diplomatic meetings.

The scheduled talks on Tuesday represent the first formal discussions since Zelensky’s controversial meeting with US President Donald Trump. Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism regarding potential advancements during the talks, noting high expectations for substantial progress. He conveyed hope for Zelensky to return to the US with a minerals deal agreement.

Conversely, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio advocated for a cautious approach, indicating that while progress is necessary, success need not equate to formal agreements. In light of mounting pressure from Trump, Zelensky has asserted Ukraine’s commitment to swiftly ending the conflict, despite ongoing challenges in securing vital US security guarantees.

Zelensky confirmed that he would not participate in the US talks, delegating cabinet members to represent Ukraine. He asserted his administration’s dedication to constructive dialogue, emphasizing the urgency of effective action. US officials intend to gauge Kyiv’s willingness to make concessions for peace, noting that a realistic approach is essential.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer conveyed hopes for the talks to influence the resumption of US aid to Ukraine. Rubio stated that Ukraine is currently receiving essential defensive intelligence and expressed optimism for resolving aid issues following the discussions.

On the eve of these negotiations, Russia launched airstrikes targeting Kyiv, further complicating the security landscape. Witkoff, who facilitated the talks, expressed that the goal is to establish a framework for a peace agreement, potentially including a ceasefire.

Zelensky has called for a temporary ceasefire and prisoner exchanges to test Russia’s sincerity in pursuing peace, but Moscow has dismissed such proposals, framing them as tactical maneuvers to allow Ukraine time to regroup.

Despite ongoing military operations, Ukrainian forces have recently faced challenges, notably in the strategic Kursk region, where quick developments on the front lines continue to evolve. Meanwhile, the Russian Embassy has voiced strong objections to any foreign military presence in Ukraine, asserting it undermines peace efforts and demanding no Western boots on the ground.

The recent meeting between President Zelensky and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman marks a crucial step in the effort to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The interactions between US and Ukrainian officials are pivotal for gauging potential peace concessions and enhancing cooperative ties. However, ongoing hostilities and Russia’s stern stance on foreign intervention complicate the landscape for a peaceful resolution. The discussions hold significant implications for US aid and the broader geopolitical environment affecting Ukraine’s future.

Original Source: www.indailysa.com.au