Witkoff: Optimism Surrounds Ukraine Peace Talks in Saudi Arabia
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism about upcoming peace negotiations in Saudi Arabia, asserting that Vladimir Putin desires peace. He discussed the potential for a ceasefire in the Black Sea and addressed concerns about Russian expansionism. Witkoff emphasized the importance of communication to end violence. The meetings will involve representatives from Ukraine, the US, and Russia.
On Sunday, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism regarding imminent negotiations in Saudi Arabia aimed at concluding the conflict in Ukraine. He highlighted that Russian President Vladimir Putin allegedly “wants peace,” as reported by Reuters. Witkoff expressed confidence that significant progress would be made, particularly regarding a ceasefire in the Black Sea.
Witkoff noted that a ceasefire agreement could potentially evolve into a comprehensive cessation of hostilities. He addressed concerns from European nations about the possibility of Moscow using such an agreement as an opportunity for further aggression. “I just don’t see that he wants to take all of Europe. This is a much different situation than it was in World War II. In World War II, there was no NATO,” he stated.
While emphasizing the urgency of stopping violence, Witkoff stated, “Let’s end this thing. You can’t end things without communicating with both sides, understanding what each of them needs, and then trying to bring them together, and that’s what we’re doing.”
Additionally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukrainian officials would reconvene with American representatives in Saudi Arabia on March 24 at a technical team level. This meeting aligns with a planned interaction between the US and Russia.
Moreover, US Special Envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg indicated that American teams would also attend the negotiations for indirect discussions with both Ukraine and Russia. However, Heorhii Tykhyi, the spokesperson for Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, clarified that the meeting would be perceived as a bilateral one with US representatives, without Ukrainian teams engaging with Russian counterparts.
In summary, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff maintains an optimistic outlook regarding the discussions in Saudi Arabia aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the necessity of dialogue for peace. He dispels fears regarding further Russian territorial ambitions in Europe while asserting that immediate cessation of hostilities remains a priority. The forthcoming negotiations will feature key discussions involving representatives from Ukraine, the US, and Russia.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
