Top U.S. officials are set to meet with Russian diplomats in Saudi Arabia to discuss ending the war in Ukraine. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has tempered expectations for an immediate peace breakthrough, emphasizing the need for more extensive negotiations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy insists that Ukraine must be included in discussions, highlighting the importance of U.S. military support for their defense against Russia.
U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are traveling to Saudi Arabia for discussions with Russian diplomats regarding an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Rubio cautioned that immediate breakthroughs in peace negotiations are unlikely, emphasizing that establishing a peace process requires more than a single meeting. He noted that future communication will determine if Russian President Vladimir Putin is genuinely interested in a sustainable resolution to the war.
President Trump, who held a recent conversation with Putin, expressed a desire to commence negotiations swiftly. However, Rubio stated the talks are not firmly established, as details remain unfinalized, including Russia’s delegation. He conveyed hope for comprehensive discussions that would involve Ukraine in addressing the war’s conclusion.
The dynamics of the negotiations may be further complicated by NATO allies being taken off guard by Trump’s call with Putin. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asserted that Ukraine should be integral to any decisions affecting it, emphasizing that the conflict is fundamentally a matter of Ukrainian sovereignty and human costs.
Zelenskyy criticized Trump’s assertion that Putin was willing to negotiate, labeling him as deceptive regarding peace intentions. The Ukrainian leader asserted the necessity of continued U.S. military support for Ukraine’s defense against Russia, stating that without it, Ukraine’s chances of survival would be significantly diminished.
Currently, Russia governs approximately 20% of Ukraine’s recognized territory, including the annexed Crimean Peninsula and areas seized by pro-Moscow separatists since the onset of the full-scale invasion in February 2022. The outcome of talks in Saudi Arabia could significantly influence future developments in the region.
In summary, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed skepticism regarding immediate peace agreements between Russia and Ukraine as discussions take place in Saudi Arabia. While both the U.S. and Ukraine insist on the importance of involving Ukraine in negotiations, ongoing U.S. military support emerges as critical to Ukraine’s survival against Russian aggression. The evolving situation necessitates careful attention to the responses and actions of both parties in the coming days.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
