Trump Administration to Host Meetings with Russian and Ukrainian Delegations in Saudi Arabia

Top Trump administration officials will engage with Russian and Ukrainian representatives in Saudi Arabia this week, following prior meetings and a proposed three-step peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between the two nations. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is among the officials involved in these discussions.

This week, top officials from the Trump administration are set to hold separate discussions with representatives from Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia, as reported by CNN on March 9. President Trump commented on the upcoming meetings while aboard Air Force One, remarking, “Big meetings coming up, as you know, in Saudi Arabia. That’s going to include Russia, but Ukraine, we’ll see if we can get something done.”

The forthcoming negotiations will occur soon after previous meetings held last month, including a US-Russian gathering on February 18 where a three-step peace plan was proposed. This plan outline included a ceasefire, subsequent elections in Ukraine, and the establishment of a conclusive agreement.

Last month also featured an Oval Office meeting between President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during which the Israeli leader faced criticism regarding the ongoing conflict. In response, Zelensky defended his administration’s positions on security assurances and prior agreements with Russia. Efforts have been made since then to mend diplomatic ties between the US and Ukraine.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to participate in the US discussions with Ukrainian counterparts in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the Ukrainian delegation is expected to meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman prior to commencing talks with US officials.

US Special Envoy Keith Kellogg previously compared American pressure on Ukraine to “hitting a mule with a board on the nose – you got their attention,” implying that the suspension of military aid was intended to compel Ukraine towards negotiations. In parallel, Trump hinted at imposing severe banking sanctions and tariffs on Russia until a ceasefire and final peace agreement are achieved.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova confirmed on March 10 that no US-Russia meetings would occur this week, indicating changes in the anticipated discussions.

In summary, the Trump administration’s officials are poised to conduct separate meetings with Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Saudi Arabia this week. Following prior discussions and a proposed peace plan, these conversations aim to address the ongoing conflict. Figures such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio are integral to these talks, focusing on the reinforcement of diplomatic relations and potential agreements moving forward.

Original Source: euromaidanpress.com