Zelensky Accuses Russia of Delaying Peace Talks Ahead of U.S. Discussions

Ukrainian and U.S. officials are set to meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss a cease-fire with Russia. President Zelensky articulated concerns about Russian demands, NATO membership discussions, and reaffirmed Ukraine’s sovereignty over its energy assets while expressing openness to U.S. investment in modernization efforts.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukrainian and U.S. officials will convene in Saudi Arabia to discuss the cessation of hostilities with Russia. This meeting, scheduled for Monday, will involve technical teams aiming to clarify terms for a cease-fire concerning energy and infrastructure. Following this meeting, he anticipated a U.S. diplomatic initiative to resolve remaining discrepancies with Moscow.

Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s intent to present a list of civilian infrastructure it wishes to protect during the discussions. However, he expressed concern over Russian demands, such as a cessation of U.S. military aid to Ukraine, asserting that such preconditions could prolong the conflict. Furthermore, he criticized the exclusion of Ukraine’s NATO membership discussions from negotiations, lamenting that Ukraine’s accession is not being actively supported by the United States.

Russia confirmed its attendance at separate discussions with the U.S. in Riyadh, sending a delegation led by Russian Senator Grigory Karasin. These talks will likely revolve around the potential revival of the Black Sea initiative, which facilitated the export of Ukrainian grain and Russian fertilizers, a deal that Moscow exited in July 2023, citing restrictions from Western sanctions.

Sergei Kislyak, deputy chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, stated that their focus would remain on Russia’s stance. This includes demands for the U.S. to halt military support for Ukraine and restrictions on Kyiv’s military mobilization. Zelensky also rejected ideas that U.S. ownership of Ukrainian energy sectors, specifically the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station, would be acceptable, insisting that it remains Ukrainian state property despite the ongoing challenges posed by Russia’s control of the area.

Zelensky clarified that while ownership discussions were not on the agenda, Ukraine is receptive to U.S. investment aimed at modernizing the power station. He debunked media reports suggesting that a comprehensive U.S. takeover of Ukrainian energy infrastructure was discussed, affirming that Ukraine’s integration with Europe’s energy grid is pivotal for its energy security and ownership remains with the state.

In summary, President Zelensky’s comments emphasize the urgency of talks with U.S. officials concerning the Ukraine conflict, while expressing deep concern over Russian preconditions and NATO membership discussions. The upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia will involve efforts to establish a cease-fire and protect critical infrastructure. Furthermore, Zelensky’s firm stance on Ukrainian sovereignty regarding energy assets reaffirms the nation’s commitment to self-determination amid the ongoing conflict.

Original Source: www.upi.com