Zelensky Meets Saudi Crown Prince Ahead of Key US Peace Talks on Ukraine Conflict
President Zelensky’s recent meeting with Saudi Crown Prince aims to facilitate peace talks with the US about the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The talks will assess Ukraine’s willingness to make concessions for a realistic peace. Optimism exists despite ongoing military strikes from Russia, with Zelensky committed to a swift resolution, though he will not attend the discussions directly.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah before crucial peace talks between Ukrainian and US officials regarding Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. This meeting highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to international efforts aimed at resolving the conflict. The US aims for substantial progress during these discussions, marking a shift in its approach to the war, including a direct engagement with Moscow.
Ukraine seeks a more pragmatic relationship with the US following a challenging interaction between Zelensky and President Donald Trump last month. This marks the first official interactions since that meeting, and optimism is present; Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed high expectations for progress. However, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized caution regarding a potential minerals deal.
Despite pressure from the US, Zelensky has prioritized a commitment to a rapid resolution of the conflict without securing vital US security guarantees. While he will not attend the upcoming discussions, his core delegation will include high-ranking officials. Zelensky has expressed commitment to constructive dialogue.
US officials aim to assess Ukraine’s willingness to make concessions for a realistic peace during the talks. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has urged Trump to resume US aid to Ukraine, indicating that the outcome of the meetings will be critical. Meanwhile, as talks are underway, Russia has initiated air strikes targeting Ukraine, highlighting the ongoing military tension.
Witkoff is focused on establishing a framework for a peace agreement and ceasefire, while Zelensky has called for a truce and prisoner exchanges to gauge Russia’s commitment to peace. Kyiv is reportedly prepared to finalize a minerals deal with the US to secure continued support. On another note, Ukrainian forces face a precarious situation in the Kursk region, although military leadership maintains there is no immediate risk of encirclement despite Russian counteroffensives.
Additionally, the Russian embassy has warned Australia against joining militarily in Ukraine, asserting that the presence of Western troops is unacceptable and undermines peace efforts. The statement clarified that this warning should not be misconstrued as a direct threat.
The upcoming peace talks between Ukraine and the US carry significant potential for progress in resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelensky’s strategic meeting with Saudi leadership underscores international support for Ukraine, despite challenges in negotiations with the US regarding security assurances. With ongoing military conflicts and differing perspectives on concessions, the situation remains tense as both sides aim for a pragmatic resolution to the war.
Original Source: www.indailysa.com.au
