US Indicates Ukraine Prepared for Ceasefire Talks with Russia
The US believes Ukraine is ready to advance on a ceasefire with Russia, with key officials scheduled for talks in Saudi Arabia. Trump has urged Zelensky to comply without immediate security guarantees, amid ongoing pressure and previous tensions. Zelensky’s team will negotiate while seeking stronger support as Ukraine faces significant territorial losses.
The Trump administration has indicated that Ukraine is prepared to advance on the US’s ceasefire request with Russia. A senior US State Department official noted that high-ranking officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, are set to discuss the ceasefire with Ukrainian leaders in Saudi Arabia, suggesting a willingness to negotiate.
President Trump has urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to comply with the demand for a swift ceasefire, although he has not offered any immediate security guarantees. Tensions arose during a recent White House meeting where Trump criticized Zelensky for not being ready to cease hostilities. As the conflict continues, approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory remains under Russian control since the invasion began in February 2022.
The State Department official acknowledged the significance of high-level meetings, stating, “The fact that they’re coming here at senior levels is a good indication… they’re ready to move forward.” Although Zelensky will attend discussions in Saudi Arabia, he is unlikely to engage directly with the American delegation. Instead, his office will be represented by key officials including Andriy Yermak and national security and defense advisors.
In a recent address, Zelensky expressed hope for achieving progress in peace and support. He has faced US pressure to make concessions while simultaneously advocating for stronger security assurances for Ukraine, as there is a concern over Russia’s previous disregard for ceasefire agreements. The US’s pressure on Russia is not as publicly acknowledged.
Following the public dispute with Trump, Zelensky sought to mend relations with the US, crucial for military support. Envoy Steve Witkoff noted that Trump received an letter of “apology” from Zelensky, reflecting a desire to repair ties. During the Saudi discussions, the US intends to outline a peace framework and revisit a pivotal minerals deal.
Ukraine has offered access to its rare earth mineral reserves in exchange for US security pledges, which was sidelined amid the diplomatic tensions with the US halting military aid and intelligence cooperation. Despite this, when asked about the potential lift of the intelligence pause, Trump indicated it could happen soon, emphasizing the urgency of progress in Ukraine’s negotiations.
Overall, the US is encouraging Ukraine to engage in ceasefire discussions with Russia, signaling readiness from both sides to negotiate. Despite previous tensions, high-level talks in Saudi Arabia are set to explore a framework for peace and revisit mineral deals. Zelensky faces pressure to concede while still seeking security assurances, illustrating the complex dynamics at play as the conflict persists.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
