The Trump administration believes Ukraine is ready to progress on a ceasefire with Russia as U.S. officials prepare for talks in Saudi Arabia. President Trump is pressuring President Zelensky for quick concessions without immediate security guarantees. Ongoing tensions from a recent public disagreement remain, but there are hopes for a framework for peace discussions and exploration of mineral deals.
The Trump administration has indicated that Ukraine is prepared to advance discussions regarding a ceasefire with Russia. According to a senior official from the U.S. State Department, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz plan to meet with Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia to facilitate these discussions.
President Trump has intensified pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to agree to a swift ceasefire, although this does not come with a direct promise of U.S. security assurances. Tensions have existed, exemplified by a recent public disagreement where Trump expressed doubts about Zelensky’s readiness to cease hostilities.
Since Russia commenced a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, it has seized approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory. The U.S. official remarked, “The fact that they’re coming here at senior levels is a good indication to us that they want to sit down and they’re ready to move forward.”
While President Zelensky is also scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia, his role in the talks with U.S. officials is expected to be informal. Instead, the discussions will involve key members of Zelensky’s administration, including his chief of staff, the national security adviser, and the foreign and defense ministers.
In a recent address, President Zelensky expressed hope for outcomes that would bring peace and continued support for Ukraine. He faces considerable pressure from the U.S. to concede during negotiations, while he simultaneously seeks reliable security commitments from the United States, indicating that previous ceasefire agreements have been violated by Russia.
Post-confrontation with the White House, Zelensky issued apologies in an attempt to mend relations with the U.S., acknowledging its vital military support. It was reported that Trump received a letter from Zelensky expressing regret and gratitude for U.S. assistance.
The U.S. delegation is expected to explore a potential framework for peace aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. Discussions may also include a significant minerals deal that had been sidelined due to previous diplomatic tensions. Ukraine is considering providing U.S. access to its rare earth mineral reserves in exchange for security guarantees.
Following the disagreement at the White House, military aid and intelligence-sharing were temporarily suspended, yet Trump remarked that consideration to lift the pause is nearing conclusion. This matter remains closely monitored as developments arise. On February 18, Rubio had discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, emphasizing ongoing diplomatic engagements.
In summary, the U.S. administration perceives Ukraine’s leadership as willing to pursue a ceasefire with Russia, with discussions led by high-ranking officials in Saudi Arabia. While President Zelensky faces pressure for concessions, he continues to emphasize the need for robust security guarantees. The restoration of military aid and ongoing negotiations regarding a minerals deal further underscores the complexities of U.S.-Ukraine relations amid the protracted conflict with Russia.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
