Ukraine Declines Participation in US-Russia Talks Scheduled in Saudi Arabia
Ukraine will not attend the US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, clarifying its non-involvement following upcoming discussions between Trump and Zelenskyy. Their talks are crucial for determining the future of Ukraine’s participation in negotiations regarding a ceasefire, particularly after past tensions between Trump and Zelenskyy.
Ukraine will not be involved in the US-Russia negotiations set for March 23 in Saudi Arabia, as stated by Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to Ukraine’s Presidential Office. He confirmed that these discussions between the US and Russia will be bilateral, hence Ukraine’s absence is intended.
Podolyak highlighted that the outcome of a phone call between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will determine Ukraine’s future involvement in negotiations. This call aims to clarify Trump’s perspective on the discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, crucial for understanding the implications for Ukraine.
Reflecting on a prior meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy that was fraught with tension, Podolyak described it as “a fairly emotional conversation” that surfaced existing contradictions. These issues influenced the dynamics of the impending US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, fostering both official and unofficial communications beforehand.
The upcoming US-Russia discussions are aimed at negotiating a ceasefire in Ukraine. Mike Waltz, the US National Security Advisor, revealed that he had coordinated with Russian counterpart Yuri Ushakov to facilitate these dialogues in Riyadh, emphasizing the goal of expanding the previously secured partial ceasefire.
Recent developments include a conversation between Putin and Trump regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, where Putin dismissed the idea of a full ceasefire, citing unrealistic conditions. However, he reportedly consented to halt strikes on Ukraine’s energy sectors, a critical issue amid conflict escalation. Meanwhile, Trump and Zelenskyy are engaged in discussions about the contents of Trump’s talk with Putin during a call scheduled for March 19.
In summary, Ukraine’s non-participation in the upcoming US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia is strategically tied to the outcomes of Trump’s dialogues with Zelenskyy. The focus remains on understanding the implications of these discussions on Ukraine’s involvement in future negotiations, especially concerning a ceasefire. The talks aim to address critical issues, including ongoing attacks on energy infrastructure amidst the broader conflict.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
