U.S. and Ukraine to Reassess Relations in Saudi Talks Following Tensions
U.S. and Ukrainian officials are set to meet in Saudi Arabia to mend ties after a clash between Trump and Zelenskiy. Talks will focus on Ukraine’s possible concessions for peace amid changes in U.S. policy. Key territorial concerns and the ongoing conflict with Russia remain critical issues during these discussions.
U.S. and Ukrainian officials are scheduled to meet in Saudi Arabia to address simmering tensions following a contentious clash between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. These talks are part of efforts to reestablish relations while exploring Ukraine’s willingness to make concessions in response to Trump’s aim for a swift end to the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Washington, which had previously been a staunch ally of Ukraine prior to Trump’s presidency, has shifted its approach to prioritize a quick resolution to the war. This policy change involves direct engagement with Moscow and a halt to military aid, which was critical following Russia’s large-scale invasion in 2022.
Trump’s recent altercation with Zelenskiy has adversely affected bilateral relations, putting a minerals deal that Trump tied to U.S. support at risk. This agreement is seen as crucial for securing the compensation of approximately $65 billion worth of military aid extended to Ukraine since the Russian invasion began three years ago.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed the necessity of understanding Ukraine’s position and potential concessions necessary for a ceasefire. He emphasized that mutual concessions from both parties are essential for ending the conflict. Rubio, traveling to Jeddah with National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, is set to meet with high-ranking Ukrainian officials such as Andriy Yermak, Zelenskiy’s aide.
Although Zelenskiy is engaged in meetings with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and will not participate in these discussions, hopes for the progression of the U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal remain, as expressed by Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy for the Middle East. Witkoff is also planning to visit Moscow to speak with President Vladimir Putin.
Ukraine’s European allies contend that Kyiv should negotiate with Russia from a position of strength, cautioning against hastiness in peace talks. Zelenskiy has previously claimed that Putin does not desire peace and could pose further threats to European nations if Ukraine does not achieve a favorable outcome.
Rubio refrained from detailing specific concessions each side might need to make but suggested that Ukraine will likely struggle to reclaim all of its territory lost since Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014. As of now, Russia occupies approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, with ongoing military activity in the eastern Donetsk region.
Earlier discussions between U.S. and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia aimed at restoring diplomatic relations highlight the ongoing complexity of the situation, especially after near-total disengagement under former President Biden.
The impending discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia aim to repair strained relations following recent conflicts between Presidents Trump and Zelenskiy. The U.S. is advocating for a swift resolution to the conflict, emphasizing the need for both sides to make concessions for peace. However, complexities remain due to territorial disputes and differing visions of peace, particularly concerning Ukraine’s position against potential further aggression from Russia.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
