Ukrainian Delegation Visits Saudi Arabia Amid US-Russia Peace Negotiations

A Ukrainian delegation has arrived in Saudi Arabia amid speculation about US-Russia talks aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict. Ukrainian officials emphasize strengthening economic ties while expressing skepticism regarding immediate negotiations with Russia. US envoys initiated meetings to facilitate a peace settlement, amidst ongoing international scrutiny of the situation.

A Ukrainian delegation has recently arrived in Saudi Arabia to prepare for a potential visit by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. This visit coincides with ongoing speculations regarding upcoming US-Russia negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict between Moscow and Ukraine. Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko emphasized that their primary objective involves strengthening economic ties and finalizing important agreements with regional partners, although she did not confirm a timeline or details concerning Zelenskiy’s itinerary.

Andriy Yermak, an adviser to President Zelenskiy, clarified that there would be no direct meetings between Ukrainian and Russian representatives in the near future until a comprehensive peace plan is established. Yermak stated their current avoidance of negotiations was intentional, focusing instead on delineating a framework conducive to achieving a “just peace.”

Mykhailo Podolyak, another adviser to Zelenskiy, reiterated Ukraine’s non-participation in any forthcoming US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia. He remarked on a national television broadcast that there are no valuable negotiation topics currently under consideration. His comments came just before Steve Witkoff, a special envoy appointed by former President Donald Trump, announced that high-level discussions are imminent in Saudi Arabia concerning a resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Witkoff, alongside national security adviser Mike Waltz, is set to engage in discussions directed by the former president, aiming for significant progress regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Following a recent conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump reported an agreement to commence negotiations promptly to conclude the hostilities. Trump tasked Witkoff, Waltz, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe with leading these negotiations.

Putin’s recent conduct has raised concerns, especially following his ostracization from the West since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Additionally, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for the Russian leader in 2023. Witkoff refrained from explicitly addressing whether any territorial concessions from Ukraine would be necessary in negotiations but stressed the importance of trust-building to facilitate an end to the conflict, as directed by the president.

The arrival of the Ukrainian delegation in Saudi Arabia underscores ongoing diplomatic efforts amid heightened speculation about US-Russia negotiations to resolve the Ukraine conflict. While officials strive to strengthen economic relationships, key advisors express skepticism about immediate talks with Russia, emphasizing the need for a strategic peace plan. The situation remains dynamic, with significant involvement from US envoys and the international community, reinforcing the complexity of achieving a lasting resolution.

Original Source: www.lismorecitynews.com.au