Ukraine Advances Peace Talks with U.S. Amidst Ongoing Conflict

U.S. and Ukrainian officials are holding talks in Saudi Arabia to establish a ceasefire with Russia. The Ukrainian plan includes a halt on missile strikes and a Black Sea truce. U.S. Secretary of State Rubio indicated a focus on understanding Ukrainian concessions and potential mineral agreements, but clarified that securing minerals is not the primary agenda.

U.S. and Ukrainian officials commenced discussions on a partial ceasefire plan between Ukraine and Russia in Saudi Arabia. The plan involves ceasing long-range missile strikes and establishing a truce in the Black Sea region. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not attend but was represented by key officials including Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak and Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. Zelenskyy expressed hope for tangible outcomes from the talks.

Leading the U.S. delegation were Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, amid President Donald Trump’s initiative to negotiate a quick conclusion to the war, which began with Russia’s invasion in 2022. Rubio emphasized the need to address the pause in aid to Ukraine and suggested the U.S. is currently more focused on understanding potential concessions the Ukrainian government could consider.

Rubio acknowledged that while Ukrainians are receiving essential intelligence support, the discussions on aid are crucial. He stated that there is no military solution to the conflict, and both Russia and Ukraine must confront difficult choices.

In separate meetings, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman engaged with Rubio and previously with Zelenskyy. Talks also indicated a U.S. interest in accessing Ukraine’s mineral resources, vital for the American economy, including uranium and lithium. However, Rubio clarified this issue was not the primary focus of the discussions, calling for clear agreements rather than memoranda.

The talks in Saudi Arabia signify a significant step towards a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The discussions highlight a dual focus on immediate peace efforts and longer-term economic considerations related to Ukrainian mineral resources. As negotiations progress, the involvement of key figures from both the U.S. and Saudi Arabia underlines the complexity and importance of finding a mutually agreeable resolution to the conflict.

Original Source: www.voanews.com