Zelenskyy Remains Optimistic About US-Ukraine Talks in Saudi Arabia
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is hopeful about US-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia that aim for peace with Russia. Despite tensions and a pause in US military aid, discussions are set to outline a peace framework. Zelenskyy insists on security guarantees, while Russia desires terms ensuring its security. The geopolitical complexities remain high as stakeholders seek resolution.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expresses optimism for upcoming US-Ukraine discussions in Saudi Arabia, aimed at achieving substantial progress toward ending the war with Russia. These talks follow heightened tensions and a recent pause in US military aid. Although Zelenskyy will not personally attend, he confirmed that Ukrainian and American teams are actively working together to secure a “fast and lasting” peace.
US President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, indicated that the American delegation seeks to develop a peace framework. This initiative transpires after a public dispute between Trump and Zelenskyy, where Trump criticized Ukraine’s preparedness to conclude the conflict, leading to the suspension of military aid and intelligence sharing.
To rebuild relations, Zelenskyy reportedly sent a letter to Trump expressing “apology” and “gratitude.” Witkoff noted, “Hopefully, we get things back on track with the Ukrainians, and everything resumes,” as per BBC. Meanwhile, the US is urging Ukraine to make concessions ahead of formal peace talks, while Zelenskyy demands robust security guarantees for his country.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, it has seized roughly 20% of Ukraine’s territory. Zelenskyy stated, “The war continues solely because of Russia,” urging global leaders to compel Moscow to cease hostilities. He referred to a recent truce proposal from French President Emmanuel Macron, suggesting a halt to attacks on civilian infrastructure, but Russia has not publicly acknowledged this proposal.
Russian President Vladimir Putin contends that Moscow desires peace contingent on measures that assure Russia’s long-term security. He claimed, “We don’t need anything that belongs to others, but we won’t give up anything that belongs to us either.”
Last month, the US conducted preliminary peace dialogues with Russia in Saudi Arabia without Ukrainian or European representation. Trump asserts that a pause in military support will motivate Kyiv to engage in negotiations, although the degree of pressure on Moscow remains uncertain.
Zelenskyy’s optimism for US-Ukraine talks reflects ongoing efforts to resolve the conflict with Russia. With the backdrop of strained US relations and military aid pause, both parties are exploring pathways to peace. The continued struggle for security guarantees and geopolitical negotiations underscores the complexity of the situation, while international mediation plays a crucial role in addressing the war’s resolution. Stakeholders’ willingness to compromise is vital for lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
