Ukrainian President Zelenskyy arrives in Saudi Arabia to engage in talks aimed at mending relations with the US ahead of a meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The Ukrainian delegation seeks to restore vital military aid, while discussions around peace negotiations and regional security are also anticipated.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has arrived in Saudi Arabia as preparations are underway for a meeting with US officials. Although Zelenskyy will not be directly involved in discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, his team aims to mend relations after a contentious visit to Washington in February, which involved a public disagreement with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
Zelenskyy was reported to have landed in Jeddah, where the Ukraine-US summit is set to occur on Tuesday. He plans to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman later in the evening, following Iftar, the meal breaking the daily fast during Ramadan. Meanwhile, Rubio is also on his way to Saudi Arabia to confer with the Crown Prince but will not meet with Zelenskyy.
The Ukrainian delegation is focused on persuading the US to restore military aid and intelligence, which have been pivotal for Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in 2022. Rubio expressed that a favorable agreement between Ukraine and the US could expedite peace discussions, considering ongoing humanitarian consequences for the Ukrainian people.
Rubio articulated the need for Ukraine to express its willingness to engage in peace negotiations and indicated that concessions might be necessary to end the enduring conflict. He emphasized the importance of listening to Ukraine’s conditions and comparing them to Russian demands to gauge possible resolutions.
Simultaneously, UK Opposition Leader Sir Keir Starmer had a discussion with Trump ahead of the US-Ukraine meeting, stressing the UK’s commitment to facilitating peace. The conversation included topics surrounding US aid and the economic agreements previously discussed, with both leaders agreeing to maintain open communication.
In addition, the European Union has initiated measures to strengthen its defense capabilities and allocate substantial funds towards security, responding to recent policy shifts from the Trump administration regarding Ukraine. An unnamed US intelligence official conveyed that there is still a hold on intelligence sharing that supports offensive operations, yet there are expectations for potential advancements in this area during the talks in Saudi Arabia.
In summary, President Zelenskyy’s visit to Saudi Arabia aims to mend crucial diplomatic ties with the United States and regain military support amid ongoing military challenges. As important discussions unfold, both US and UK leaders express their commitment to fostering peace in Ukraine. The engagement may lead to significant shifts in support and security policies, signaling a responsive approach to the dynamic geopolitical landscape in the region.
Original Source: news.sky.com
