Ukraine to Meet with U.S. Delegations to Discuss Peace Talks Next Week
On March 6, President Zelensky announced upcoming meetings between Ukraine and U.S. delegations to negotiate peace. The talks follow heightened tensions after a conflict in the Oval Office disrupted military aid and intelligence-sharing. Experts propose deploying European air forces for Ukraine’s defense against aerial strikes, while Ukraine seeks alternatives to U.S. intelligence amid ongoing Russian attacks.
On March 6, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukrainian and U.S. delegations are set to meet next week in a bid to foster peace talks. The talks, scheduled for March 12, will involve Zelensky’s chief of staff Andriy Yermak and members of the U.S. delegation, including Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s readiness to propose steps toward peace.
The discussions aim to establish a framework for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire. Witkoff stated they are finalizing the meeting venue, with Riyadh or Jeddah being considered. The context follows recent tensions, including a conflict in the Oval Office between Zelensky and U.S. officials that halted a bilateral deal regarding Ukraine’s natural resources.
Also on March 6, Keith Kellogg, Trump’s special envoy for Ukraine, indicated that previous Istanbul talks are not viable as a basis for a peace agreement. He criticized the agreements made shortly after Russia’s invasion, suggesting they did not reflect present realities. Kellogg noted that conditions now differ significantly from 2022, as the Trump administration seeks to re-establish U.S.-Russia relations.
Military experts have proposed deploying European air forces to protect Ukrainian cities from continued Russian aerial strikes under a plan called the Sky Shield. This initiative would involve around 120 fighter jets and is seen as providing more immediate protection compared to ground troops. However, European leaders are cautious about allowing this while Russia’s war persists.
Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov mentioned on March 6 that Ukraine is exploring intelligence alternatives due to the U.S. halting intelligence-sharing. Ukraine is seeking assistance from Germany amidst concerns that the intelligence cutoff could hinder its ability to monitor Russian military activity. France continues to supply military intelligence to Ukraine, while a European summit discussed increased defense spending and support for Ukraine amid shifting U.S. policies.
The pause in U.S. intelligence sharing has reportedly made it harder for Ukraine to track Russian attacks, which have resulted in significant civilian casualties. A recent missile strike in Kryvyi Rih killed several people and highlights the ongoing threat. Despite the current restrictions, Ukraine still utilizes other satellite intelligence sources while trying to adapt swiftly to the evolving situation.
The recent announcements indicate a renewed effort to engage in peace talks between Ukraine and the U.S. amid rising tensions. Major developments include the scheduled meetings for potential peace agreements and the strategic Sky Shield proposal to bolster air defense. Additionally, Ukraine is working on alternative intelligence strategies in light of U.S. restrictions. Overall, the situation remains fluid, with ongoing military actions impacting civilian safety and international diplomatic efforts.
Original Source: kyivindependent.com
