U.S. and Ukraine Hold Peace Talks in Saudi Arabia Amid Ongoing Conflict

U.S. and Ukrainian delegations met in Saudi Arabia on March 24 to discuss energy security amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism for peace, while President Zelenskyy emphasized the need for President Putin to halt attacks. The discussions aimed at strengthening security and achieving a just peace, though violence continues with recent deadly drone strikes in Kyiv.

On March 24, delegations from the United States and Ukraine convened in Saudi Arabia to discuss strategies for safeguarding energy facilities and critical infrastructure. This meeting precedes scheduled talks between US and Russian officials and marks a significant step toward addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. During the discussions, US special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism regarding potential peace advancements amid the current turmoil, which represents the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the delegation worked in a “completely constructive manner” highlighting the necessity of securing a cessation of strikes ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The discussions, as emphasized by Ukraine’s Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, were designed to draw closer to a “just peace” and enhance national security. While President Zelenskyy regarded the meetings as “essentially technical,” their significance cannot be understated given the ongoing situation.

Recent developments included Putin’s acceptance of former President Trump’s proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, aimed at stopping attacks on energy infrastructure, although the escalation of violence continues, evidenced by a major Russian drone strike in Kyiv that tragically resulted in three fatalities, including that of a young child.

In conclusion, the recent talks between the US and Ukrainian delegations in Saudi Arabia underscore a collaborative effort to strengthen security and work towards peace amid the ongoing conflict. With optimism expressed by US envoy Steve Witkoff and constructive engagement from Ukraine’s leadership, the hope for a cessation of hostilities appears to be gaining momentum, despite setbacks caused by continued violence. The pathway to a peaceful resolution remains contingent upon the actions of Russian leadership.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com