Ukraine-US Delegations Hold Crucial Talks in Jeddah Amid Aid Freeze
Ukrainian and US delegations began talks in Jeddah on March 11 amid a military aid freeze from the US. A joint statement indicated plans to resume intelligence sharing and security assistance, while Ukraine is open to a ceasefire proposal. Optimism surrounds the talks, which aim to address peace and bilateral relations.
On March 11, delegations from Ukraine and the US convened in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as reported by the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry. This meeting follows President Trump’s controversial suspension of military aid to Ukraine and a pause in intelligence sharing, which stemmed from tensions between him and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
In a significant joint statement from the US and Ukrainian delegations, they declared plans to “immediately lift the pause on intelligence sharing and resume security assistance to Ukraine.” Additionally, Ukraine is prepared to accept a US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, potentially extendable by mutual agreement and contingent upon the acceptance by Russia.
According to the Financial Times, a joint statement regarding the discussions will be released, although a follow-up meeting has not been scheduled. US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce expressed optimism about the talks, indicating that positive developments could affect global humanitarian efforts.
After several hours of negotiation, US Presidential Advisor Michael Waltz described progress as “getting there.” He emphasized a constructive atmosphere during the discussions, which were described by Ukrainian Presidential Administration head Andrii Yermak as focused on achieving a lasting peace.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk urged both US and Ukrainian participants to seize this opportunity, emphasizing that the world is closely observing their actions in Jeddah. The delegation from Ukraine comprises key figures such as Yermak, Foreign Affairs Minister Sybiha, Defense Minister Umerov, and Deputy Head Palytsa, while the US is represented by Secretary of State Rubio and National Security Advisor Waltz. Their discussions center on peace pathways and strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.
The meeting between the US and Ukrainian delegations in Jeddah marks a crucial step towards resuming military support and intelligence sharing, following a tense period of diplomatic conflict. The readiness of Ukraine to agree to a ceasefire proposal signals a potential shift towards peace, with various stakeholders emphasizing the significance of this opportunity. As the situation evolves, ongoing engagement will be critical to achieving lasting solutions.
Original Source: euromaidanpress.com
