U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio sees promise in Ukraine’s ceasefire proposal before talks in Saudi Arabia. Officials from Ukraine will discuss a truce, amidst Russia’s previous rejections. The negotiations highlight the need for both sides to make concessions for peace and address military aid concerns.
In the lead-up to discussions in Saudi Arabia, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism about Ukraine’s proposal for a partial ceasefire aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. He noted, “I’m not saying that alone is enough but it’s the kind of concession you would need to see in order to end the conflict.”
Ukrainian officials plan to propose an aerial and naval truce during negotiations. Despite this, Russia has previously dismissed the idea, perceiving it as a ploy to delay and avoid its military defeat in Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has arrived in Saudi Arabia to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, although his role in the negotiations themselves will be minimal.
Ukraine’s delegation will include key figures such as Andriy Yermak, head of Zelensky’s office, as well as national security and defense ministers. The U.S. will be represented by Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. Rubio emphasized the importance of clarifying Ukraine’s peace intentions while recognizing that both sides must make concessions.
He remarked that, “there’s no military solution” to the conflict and that resolution must be sought through diplomatic efforts. The talks will be crucial following recent tensions that resulted in a U.S. pause on military aid to Ukraine, which Rubio stated was due to concerns regarding Ukraine’s commitment to peace.
Meanwhile, special envoy Steve Witkoff anticipated “substantial progress” during the negotiations. Witkoff acknowledged ongoing discussions about a potential minerals deal between the U.S. and Ukraine, which could create a joint fund from Ukrainian mineral sales. The dialogue will also address security protocols for Ukrainians and territorial disputes.
With the backdrop of Russia’s ongoing military operations, launched in February 2022, which resulted in significant territorial control over Ukraine, the outcome of these talks remains pivotal for future U.S.-Ukraine relations and international diplomatic efforts.
In summary, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has identified potential in Ukraine’s ceasefire proposal while urging both sides to make difficult concessions. The negotiations in Saudi Arabia will serve as a platform to clarify intentions and explore pathways toward diplomatic resolution, amidst current geopolitical tensions. The outcome of these discussions will significantly influence the future of U.S. support for Ukraine and regional stability.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
