Zelenskiy Engages Saudi Arabia Ahead of Key US Peace Talks
Ukrainian President Zelenskiy visits Saudi Arabia for crucial discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before important US negotiations regarding the conflict with Russia. The meeting aligns with Ukraine’s challenges as US support diminishes, emphasizing the need for diplomatic dialogue and potential concessions for peace.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is visiting Saudi Arabia for discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ahead of key US negotiations regarding the ongoing conflict with Russia. This visit comes amid rising challenges for Ukraine as US support wanes, focusing instead on a quicker resolution to the war. The US has changed its approach, directly engaging with Russia while stepping back from military aid to Ukraine, complicating Kyiv’s situation.
Zelenskiy aims to address diplomatic and strategic topics during his meeting, as Saudi Arabia has been a significant mediator since Russia’s 2022 invasion, facilitating prisoner exchanges and hosting talks between Russia and the US recently. His visit precedes talks with US officials, the first since a contentious meeting with former President Trump, where they intend to focus on a bilateral minerals deal and strategies for peace.
Despite facing pressure from Trump for a rapid resolution, Zelenskiy has emphasized the need for alignment between the US and Ukraine, even as he seeks more robust security guarantees for a peace agreement. He will not attend the talks himself; instead, his delegation will consist of trusted officials, including top military and government leaders.
Zelenskiy has expressed commitment to constructive dialogue, sharing that “realistic proposals are on the table. The key is to move quickly and effectively.” US officials aim to assess Ukraine’s willingness to consider concessions for peace, stressing the importance of compromise in negotiations. Trump expressed optimism for the upcoming discussions, noting a potential resumption of intelligence sharing with Ukraine.
In addition to a ceasefire, Zelenskiy is advocating for an air and sea truce and a prisoner exchange, viewing it as an indicator of Russia’s seriousness about peace. However, Moscow has dismissed such proposals, claiming they serve to prolong Ukraine’s military struggle. As the battlefield situation worsens for Ukraine, Zelenskiy is urging European allies for increased support amid ongoing Russian advances in eastern territories.
Recent reports indicate that Russia controls about 20% of Ukraine’s territory, with intensified aerial assaults, including over 1,200 guided bombs and numerous drone strikes in just one week, escalating the urgency for a stable resolution.
Zelenskiy’s visit to Saudi Arabia highlights the delicate diplomatic efforts required to address the Ukraine-Russia conflict amidst shifting US policies. The upcoming talks with US officials are expected to focus on both potential concessions from Ukraine and fostering a constructive dialogue for peace. With Russia intensifying its military actions, the situation remains critical, needing robust international support for Ukraine’s defense and strategic stability in the region.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
