American and Ukrainian officials are set to meet in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to negotiate terms aimed at resolving the enduring conflict with Russia. Key topics include a proposed partial ceasefire, military aid, and security guarantees. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for Ukraine to be prepared for difficult decisions as both sides seek a peaceful resolution.
On Tuesday, American and Ukrainian officials will convene in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with the intention of addressing the protracted conflict with Russia. This meeting seeks to reset relations straining following a prior contentious encounter among President Trump, President Zelenskyy, and Vice President Vance, which resulted in a freeze on U.S. military assistance to Ukraine.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the necessity for Ukraine to be ready to undertake challenging actions as a primary outcome of the discussions. Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy, while expressing his commitment to peace, underscored that any agreement must safeguard against further Russian aggressions. Zelenskyy engaged in conversations with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss essential strategies for achieving a sustainable peace, specifically addressing prisoner releases and security guarantees.
Furthermore, Zelenskyy indicated that a Ukrainian delegation would collaborate closely with the U.S. team during the talks. The delegation is resolute in advocating for Ukraine’s interests and aims for constructive dialogue to navigate the war’s resolution effectively. Rubio, along with national security adviser Mike Waltz and envoy Steve Witkoff, will represent the U.S. during the negotiations.
As part of the discussions, Rubio acknowledged the proposal from Ukraine for a partial ceasefire, which would restrict long-range strikes. He recognized the need for both sides to make concessions to foster peace. The White House is also urging Kyiv to approve a minerals sharing agreement to recoup U.S. aid allocated to Ukraine since 2022.
The negotiations coincide with Ukraine’s recent large-scale drone strikes on Russia, which led to significant defensive efforts. Kremlin representatives noted that no negotiations are currently active, with the United States still assessing Ukraine’s readiness for peace discussions.
In conclusion, the upcoming talks in Jeddah mark a significant step towards potentially redefining U.S.-Ukrainian relations and developing strategies to end the ongoing conflict with Russia. Both parties face pressure to make difficult concessions, with Zelenskyy focusing on critical support and security assurances. The proposed partial ceasefire represents a strategic effort to lay groundwork for constructive dialogue. As negotiations unfold, their outcomes will be pivotal in shaping future relations and the security landscape in the region.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
