Ukraine Seeks Resumed Military Aid and Negotiations in US Talks

Ukrainian officials are in Saudi Arabia for crucial talks with US counterparts, aiming to restore frozen military aid and intelligence-sharing. President Zelenskyy is advocating for a ceasefire and negotiations with Russia while addressing conditions set by former President Trump. The discussions reflect Ukraine’s strategic efforts to mend ties with the US amid regional complexities.

High-stakes discussions between Ukrainian and US officials are set to occur in Saudi Arabia this week. Ukraine aims to convince Washington to resume intelligence sharing and military support, which was previously halted by former President Donald Trump’s administration. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy plans to argue that Kyiv is ready for swift negotiations to resolve its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Ukrainian negotiators are proposing a partial ceasefire, which would include a halt to long-range drone and missile strikes, as well as combat operations in the Black Sea, hoping to secure renewed American backing. This initiative follows Ukraine’s withdrawal from previously occupied Russian territory in the Kursk region, highlighting the concrete impacts of the US aid suspension. Ukrainian officials believe that progress in ceasefire negotiations is crucial for restoring military and intelligence support from Washington.

Zelenskyy will arrive in Saudi Arabia for discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before formal negotiations begin on Tuesday. The Ukrainian delegation, led by Andriy Yermak, includes key figures such as Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, and Deputy Chief of Staff Pavlo Palisa. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will also participate in the discussions, tasked with advancing President Biden’s goal of ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

These negotiations come after a contentious meeting on February 28 at the White House, where differing strategies regarding Ukraine’s war proposals led to a significant decline in relations. In response, Ukrainian officials have adjusted their approach, adopting a more conciliatory stance to recover Washington’s support.

Former President Trump has been hesitant to reengage in military support for Ukraine. Although he did not directly reference the Saudi talks during a recent Fox News interview, he expressed optimism about a forthcoming US-Ukraine minerals agreement. However, reports indicate that such an agreement alone would not suffice to restore military aid, as the Trump administration is demanding changes in Ukraine’s stance on peace negotiations, potentially involving territorial concessions and even a shift in presidential leadership.

European allies have conveyed support for Ukraine’s diplomatic maneuvers, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating that Brussels and Kyiv are collaborating closely. Approximately 20 nations, led by the UK and France, are reportedly considering continued assistance to Ukraine should a ceasefire be achieved, although Trump has not yet committed to such support.

In a bid for US assistance, Ukraine has introduced a phased ceasefire framework. This plan entails an initial cessation of aerial attacks and naval operations, followed by an end to strikes on energy infrastructure. Subsequent steps include prisoner exchanges and ensuring the return of Ukrainian children taken to Russia against their will. Nevertheless, Russia remains doubtful about Ukraine’s diplomatic overtures, with a Foreign Ministry spokesperson asserting that a temporary respite is unacceptable without a comprehensive resolution.

In summary, Ukrainian officials are engaging in pivotal talks with US counterparts in Saudi Arabia, seeking to resume military aid and intelligence-sharing. President Zelenskyy is advocating for a ceasefire in exchange for renewed support amidst shifting diplomatic strategies. Challenges remain, particularly due to former President Trump’s conditions and Russian skepticism towards Ukraine’s proposals. The outcome of these negotiations could significantly impact Ukraine’s future assistance and its ongoing conflict efforts against Russia.

Original Source: www.firstpost.com