Zelensky’s Visit to Norway: Commitment to US Talks Amid Stalled Ceasefire

Ukrainian President Zelensky visited Norway, confirming talks with the US and expressing doubt about Russia agreeing to a ceasefire. He stated that discussions between Ukrainian and Russian representatives and their American counterparts will take place in Saudi Arabia. Norway has pledged increased military aid to Ukraine.

During his visit to Oslo, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed ongoing diplomatic dialogues with the United States while expressing doubts regarding Russia’s willingness to accept a ceasefire. He mentioned that representatives from Ukraine and Russia would meet their American counterparts in Saudi Arabia to discuss Ukraine’s future, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

Zelensky articulated his concerns during a press conference alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, asserting that Ukraine does not anticipate Russia agreeing to a ceasefire. “We are trying to take steps in the right direction,” he stated, underscoring the importance of Ukraine’s role in these discussions.

This visit marked Zelensky’s second official trip to Norway, where he also engaged with Norway’s Finance Minister, former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, and Defence Minister Tore Sandvik. He emphasized the essential nature of Ukraine’s involvement in ceasefire negotiations.

Prime Minister Store reinforced this sentiment, highlighting the necessity of a strong European voice in addressing Ukraine’s future. In early March, Norway’s parliament had approved a substantial aid increase to Ukraine, totaling 50 billion Norwegian kroner ($47.2 billion), thereby raising the overall support to 85 billion kroner by 2025. This funding aims to bolster artillery ammunition, drones, and Ukraine’s defense industry investments.

In summary, President Zelensky’s visit to Norway reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to diplomatic negotiations while expressing skepticism about Russia’s intentions regarding a ceasefire. Discussions in Saudi Arabia involving American and Russian representatives are a strategic move towards securing a more stable future for Ukraine. Norway’s increased military aid further underscores European support for Ukraine in this critical period.

Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz