US and Ukraine Engage in Talks in Saudi Arabia Amidst Deteriorating Relations
US and Ukrainian officials will meet in Saudi Arabia after tense White House talks. The discussions aim to explore Ukraine’s concessions as Trump pushes for a rapid resolution to the conflict with Russia. Tensions have escalated following a clash between Trump and Zelenskiy, leaving critical negotiations and military assistance in jeopardy.
In a bid to repair relations following a contentious White House meeting last month, United States and Ukrainian officials are set to convene in Saudi Arabia. The discussions aim to explore Ukraine’s potential concessions amidst President Donald Trump’s directive to expedite an end to the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Traditionally, the United States has been a primary ally of Ukraine, but with Trump’s inauguration, there has been a notable shift in policy that favored negotiating a swift resolution. This change in approach included Trump’s direct engagement with Moscow, as well as a suspension of military aid and intelligence sharing that was crucial for Ukraine after the Russian invasion in 2022.
The clash between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has resulted in deteriorated relations, leaving a significant minerals deal in limbo. This deal is pivotal for the continuation of US support and the compensation of approximately $65 billion allocated in military aid to Ukraine over the past three years. Zelenskiy has been under pressure to demonstrate Ukraine’s commitment to ending the conflict, despite lacking US assurances concerning security within the minerals agreement.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the necessity of understanding Ukraine’s stance and potential concessions, asserting that a ceasefire requires mutual compromise from both parties. Rubio, along with US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, will be meeting with senior Ukrainian officials, including Andriy Yermak, a close aide to Zelenskiy, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for a separate engagement with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Despite Rubio’s cautious perspective, Trump’s special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism regarding the signing of the minerals deal. Witkoff’s upcoming plans to visit Moscow include discussions with President Vladimir Putin to further engage in diplomatic efforts surrounding Ukraine.
European allies of Ukraine contend that a peace agreement with Russia should only be pursued from a position of strength. President Zelenskiy has voiced concerns that without a decisive defeat of Russia, the aggressor may target other European nations. Rubio did not outline specific concessions needed from either side but indicated that Ukraine would face challenges in reclaiming all its lost territories.
Currently, Russia occupies approximately 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including Crimea, annexed in 2014, and continues to advance in the eastern Donetsk region. Previously, US and Russian officials had met in Saudi Arabia to discuss re-establishing relations after a halt in communication during the Biden administration.
In summary, US and Ukrainian officials will engage in discussions in Saudi Arabia to address deteriorating relations and explore potential concessions to bring an end to the conflict with Russia. The shift in US policy under President Trump complicates Ukraine’s position, particularly regarding military support and territorial integrity. The successful negotiation of a minerals deal is pivotal for ongoing US assistance as both countries navigate the complexities of the conflict and the necessity for mutual concessions.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
