U.S. and Ukraine Hold Crucial Talks in Jeddah Amid Ongoing Conflict
U.S. and Ukrainian officials are meeting in Jeddah to discuss ending the ongoing conflict sparked by Russia’s invasion. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that Ukraine must be willing to make difficult decisions. President Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of peace negotiations while ensuring security against future aggression. A proposed partial ceasefire may be discussed, amidst ongoing tensions and military actions.
On Tuesday, Ukrainian and American officials convened in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to discuss strategies to resolve the ongoing conflict spurred by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has persisted for three years. The meeting aims to restore strained relations between President Donald Trump and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after a recent tense Oval Office interaction, which resulted in Trump’s criticism of Kyiv and a suspension of U.S. military aid.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, leading the U.S. delegation, underscored the necessity for Ukraine to demonstrate its willingness to undertake challenging decisions to facilitate peace negotiations. Although President Zelenskyy emphasized his commitment to achieving peace, he has also insisted that any agreement must effectively deter future Russian aggression. Notably, Zelenskyy met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before the talks to discuss essential steps for concluding the conflict and establishing lasting peace.
Following his meeting, Zelenskyy remarked on social media the importance of discussing the release of prisoners and the return of Ukrainian children, viewing this as vital for fostering trust in diplomatic efforts. He expressed optimism regarding the meeting, anticipating “practical outcomes” and assured that the Ukrainian negotiating team would constructively engage in discussions with their U.S. counterparts.
The American delegation includes Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff, while Ukraine’s team features key officials such as Andriy Yermak and Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov. In light of Trump’s push for concessions from Ukraine, there remains an expectation that such discussions will involve considerable negotiations regarding a proposed minerals sharing agreement, which Trump has linked to financial recompense for U.S. support extended to Ukraine since 2022.
A Ukrainian official has disclosed intentions to propose a partial ceasefire during the negotiations, which would limit long-range air strikes and naval assaults. The specific timeframe for this potential truce remains uncertain, with expectations that the Russians’ responses will govern further actions. Rubio acknowledged the appeal of the proposed ceasefire, recognizing it as a necessary compromise for conflict resolution.
The meeting unfolded shortly after Ukraine executed its most significant drone offensive against Russia. In response, Russian officials reported that they had intercepted numerous drones, attributing casualties to these incursions. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that as of now, no formal negotiations had commenced, suggesting that discussions around a ceasefire would develop only when there is confirmed readiness for peace talks.
The talks in Jeddah represent a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, aiming to reset deteriorating U.S.-Ukrainian relations. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s emphasis on Ukraine’s readiness to undertake significant steps highlights the complexities of negotiations ahead. As both sides seek concessions, there is cautious optimism surrounding a proposed partial ceasefire that may pave the way for future diplomatic efforts.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
