U.S. and Ukraine to Release Joint Statement Following Saudis Talks on Ceasefire

The U.S. and Ukraine’s joint talks in Jeddah aim for a potential ceasefire amidst ongoing conflicts with Russia. The discussions included military aid restoration and a proposed ban on long-range strikes. A 30-day ceasefire was suggested by Ukraine, contingent on mutual agreement. Public sentiment in Ukraine shows reluctance toward territorial concessions. Moscow expects information regarding these negotiations from Washington.

On March 11, the United States and Ukraine announced plans to release a joint statement regarding discussions held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as reported by the Financial Times. These discussions focus on a potential ceasefire in the conflict with Russia, alongside the restoration of U.S. military assistance and intelligence sharing with Ukraine.

Key points of the negotiations included a proposed ceasefire at sea and in the air, along with a ban on long-range strikes, which Ukrainian officials stated would be “easy to install and to monitor.” The talks, however, are not set to continue for a second day, according to FT reports.

The Ukrainian delegation featured prominent officials including Andriy Yermak, head of the Presidential Office; Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha; Defense Minister Rustem Umerov; and Deputy Chief of Staff Pavlo Palisa. The U.S. delegation was led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.

Kyiv expressed willingness to accept a temporary 30-day ceasefire, contingent upon Russian compliance, indicating that such an arrangement could be extended through mutual agreement.

Recent surveys show public sentiment in Ukraine, with more than half of its citizens believing that Western nations are hesitant to provide military aid due to fears surrounding Russia’s potential defeat in the war. Additionally, significant opposition exists among Ukrainians to territorial concessions or abandoning NATO membership as a means to conclude the conflict.

Moscow is anticipating updates from Washington on the progress of the Ukraine-U.S. negotiations, as remarked by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.

Simultaneously, reports emerged that oil shipments via the Druzhba pipeline were interrupted following a Ukrainian drone strike in Russia, further complicating the ongoing conflict dynamics.

The recent talks between the U.S. and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia focused on establishing a potential ceasefire while addressing military aid and intelligence issues. Both nations are moving towards an agreement that could lead to a temporary cessation of hostilities, despite significant public opposition to certain concessions. The geopolitical landscape remains complex as these discussions unfold, with implications for both regional stability and international relations.

Original Source: kyivindependent.com