Ukraine Presents Peace Proposal During U.S. Talks in Saudi Arabia

U.S. and Ukrainian officials commenced peace talks in Saudi Arabia, where Ukraine will present a ceasefire plan involving Russia. Key U.S. figures seek to understand potential Ukrainian concessions regarding military aid. Discussions on Ukraine’s mineral resources exist but are not the main focus.

On Tuesday, officials from the United States and Ukraine commenced discussions in Saudi Arabia, where Ukraine plans to present a partial ceasefire proposal involving Russia. This proposal aims to halt long-range missile strikes and establish a truce concerning the Black Sea. The Ukrainian delegation, led by Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak, included Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and military commander Pavlo Palisa, while President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not participate directly.

Ahead of the negotiations, President Zelenskyy expressed on X a desire for “practical outcomes” from the talks. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz led the American contingent, representing President Donald Trump’s commitment to hasten an end to the conflict that escalated with Russia’s invasion in 2022. Rubio indicated that the U.S. seeks to clarify Ukraine’s potential concessions during the discussions.

In statements made before the meetings, Rubio highlighted, “The Ukrainians are already receiving all defensive intelligence information as we speak,” emphasizing the urgency of resolving the pause in military aid. He cautioned against expecting a formal agreement but sought to gauge the feasible concessions from Ukraine, acknowledging that both nations must undertake challenging decisions since a military solution is not possible.

Additionally, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met Rubio in Jeddah, having previously engaged in talks with Zelenskyy in Riyadh. There is speculation about a potential deal involving Ukrainian mineral resources; however, Rubio clarified that this was not the main focus of the discussions. He noted, “It’s an important topic, but it’s not the main topic on the agenda,” signifying that further details are required before any agreement is established.

Rubio also commended the constructive contributions of Britain and France in the dialogue. He dismissed speculation regarding China’s involvement in postwar peace efforts in Ukraine. This visit marks Rubio’s second trip to Saudi Arabia since assuming office. Following these talks, he is scheduled for further discussions with G7 foreign ministers in Canada.

In summary, U.S. and Ukrainian officials are engaged in critical discussions in Saudi Arabia, focusing on a ceasefire proposal and the implications of military aid. Key figures, including Secretary Rubio, aim to ascertain Ukraine’s concessions while emphasizing the necessity for arduous decisions from both sides. While mineral resource negotiations linger in the background, the primary objective remains fostering peace in light of the ongoing war.

Original Source: www.voanews.com