US Evaluates Ukraine’s Peace Negotiation Approach and Trump Relations in Saudi Arabia Meeting
U.S. officials plan to assess Ukraine’s willingness to make concessions to Russia in upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia, aiming to improve relations with the Trump administration. The discussions will focus on conditions for peace and a potential minerals deal linking security guarantees. Trump has expressed optimism, while Zelenskiy seeks continued support amid ongoing conflict with Russia.
U.S. officials plan to assess Ukraine’s willingness to make concessions to Russia during a meeting with Ukrainian representatives in Saudi Arabia. This evaluation will include monitoring Ukraine’s intent to strengthen ties with the Trump administration following a contentious meeting last month between President Trump and President Zelenskiy. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, are leading the U.S. delegation.
US officials have emphasized the need for realistic peace talks. “You can’t say ‘I want peace,’ and, ‘I refuse to compromise on anything,'” stated one official. They seek assurance that Ukraine is considering compromises and isn’t solely focused on regaining 2014 or 2022 borders. Meanwhile, Trump expressed optimism about the meetings, expecting substantial progress.
Zelenskiy confirmed his attendance in Saudi Arabia to advocate for peace and secure ongoing support. He voiced hope that negotiations would yield favorable outcomes concerning peace and military assistance. Officials from Ukraine’s European allies stress the importance of negotiating from a position of strength, warning against hastily accepting terms from Russia.
Trump has recently criticized Ukraine for lacking manpower and resources, suggesting they must expedite peace negotiations with Russia. His administration has reportedly reduced weapons shipments and intelligence sharing, emphasizing that Ukraine should demonstrate openness to a peace process.
U.S. National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes acknowledged Zelenskiy’s efforts to mend U.S.-Ukraine relations following tensions from their last meeting. Additionally, Middle East envoy Witkoff mentioned plans to discuss a ceasefire framework in Saudi Arabia.
The upcoming discussions could impact a minerals agreement between the U.S. and Ukraine that includes potential security guarantees in exchange for access to strategic resources. Initial plans for signing the agreement were disrupted during the explosive meeting between Trump and Zelenskiy. Both nations exhibit renewed interest in finalizing this deal, contingent upon Ukraine’s commitment to peace.
Trump has expressed confidence that Ukraine will eventually sign the minerals deal, contingent on demonstrating a genuine desire for peace. The State Department and Ukrainian embassy have not provided immediate comments regarding the current state of discussions.
The U.S. meeting with Ukraine in Saudi Arabia aims to gauge Ukraine’s willingness to make concessions and improve relations with the Trump administration. The focus remains on negotiating peace realistically while solidifying military and resource agreements. The outcome could significantly affect U.S.-Ukraine ties and regional stability amid ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
