Ukrainian officials have arrived in Saudi Arabia to prepare for talks surrounding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Economic ties are a central focus, while U.S.-Russia negotiations are also anticipated. Zelenskyy maintains that any discussions must include Ukraine. Trump’s involvement represents a significant shift in U.S. diplomacy toward the war. The situation underscores the continuing complexity of international relations regarding the conflict.
A Ukrainian delegation has arrived in Saudi Arabia to prepare for potential discussions involving President Volodymyr Zelenskyy regarding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The visits coincide with expectations of U.S.-Russia negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict. Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko mentioned the delegation’s efforts to bolster economic ties and indicated plans to sign significant agreements with regional nations.
Svyrydenko did not confirm any connection between Zelenskyy’s prospective visit and U.S.-Russia talks. Advisers to Zelenskyy, including Andriy Yermak, stated that there is currently no plan for direct Ukrainian-Russian meetings until a comprehensive strategy for peace is established. Mykhailo Podolyak, another adviser, emphasized that Ukraine would not be involved in any U.S.-Russia discussions, asserting there are no valuable negotiation points at the present.
Moreover, Steve Witkoff, a special envoy under former President Trump, announced imminent high-level meetings in Saudi Arabia focusing on negotiating a resolution to the Ukraine war. Witkoff and national security adviser Mike Waltz have been tasked with exploring avenues to progress in the dialogue. Following a significant call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump expressed intentions for their teams to initiate negotiations immediately.
The diplomatic landscape shifted following Trump’s decision to potentially meet with Putin, which raised substantial interest regarding Ukraine’s future. President Zelenskyy stated that any discussions regarding Ukraine must include Ukrainian representatives. European leaders have also insisted on participating in the dialogue.
Putin has faced isolation from Western nations post-Ukraine’s invasion. The International Criminal Court has even issued an arrest warrant for him. As Witkoff refrained from addressing whether any territory concessions would be required from Ukraine, he emphasized the importance of building trust and ending the war, which aligns with directives from President Trump.
In conclusion, the arrival of Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia signals preparation for potential high-level discussions regarding the resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Despite Ukraine not planning direct negotiations with Russia currently, U.S. efforts are underway to facilitate dialogue. The situation remains fluid, with Zelenskyy’s emphasis on Ukrainian involvement in peace talks and the broader European demand for inclusion in negotiations, reflecting a critical diplomatic juncture.
Original Source: apnews.com
