Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced upcoming negotiations with the United States to address the conflict with Russia, set in Saudi Arabia on March 11. Key US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are expected to attend. The meetings aim to discuss a potential peace framework and a ceasefire, following recent tensions between Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that discussions between Ukraine and the United States aimed at ending the conflict with Russia will occur in Saudi Arabia next week. Zelenskyy plans to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and subsequently engage in talks with US officials, emphasizing Ukraine’s strong desire for peace. “Ukraine is committed to achieving peace,” he affirmed via social media.
Negotiations are scheduled to commence on March 11, as reported by Fox News. Simultaneously, US President Donald Trump confirmed his upcoming trip to Saudi Arabia but did not disclose specific travel dates. Trump highlighted potential financial agreements with Saudi Arabia that would benefit American companies, amounting to one trillion dollars over four years.
The discussions will also involve significant figures, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and senior officials, as noted by Reuters. Andriy Yermak, a prominent aide to President Zelenskyy, is also expected to participate. The dialogue follows a recent confrontation between Zelenskyy and Trump, which escalated tensions.
US President Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, indicated that the upcoming meetings will focus on a possible framework for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire, as outlined by the Kyiv Post. Witkoff acknowledged Ukraine’s appreciation for US assistance while discussing possible locations for the meetings, either Riyadh or Jeddah.
High tensions characterized the recent encounter between Zelenskyy and Trump at the White House, where disagreements about military aid and ceasefire measures arose. Trump noted the complexities of diplomatic negotiations, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining relationships with all parties involved. Zelenskyy challenged Trump’s views on diplomacy and the necessity for US support, asserting Ukraine’s eagerness for a ceasefire amidst ongoing casualties in the conflict.
The upcoming US-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia signify a critical phase in diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict with Russia. With Ukraine prioritizing peace negotiations, discussions will involve key officials, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff. The interaction illustrates the heightened stakes and complexities of international diplomacy, especially against the backdrop of recent tensions between Zelenskyy and Trump. Outcomes may include a framework for peace and potential economic agreements beneficial for both nations.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com