U.S. and Ukrainian officials commenced constructive peace talks in Jeddah amid ongoing Russian conflict. Yermak expressed commitment to achieving a lasting peace while discussing conditions for ceasefire and minerals agreements. The Kremlin maintains conditions for halting hostilities, emphasizing Ukraine’s NATO stance.
Peace talks between senior officials from Ukraine and the United States commenced in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Tuesday, following a violent exchange resulting in three fatalities between Moscow and Kyiv. Andriy Yermak, head of the office of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, characterized the discussions as “very constructive”.
Yermak is leading a Ukrainian delegation that includes U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and White House special envoy Steve Witkoff, convening to strategize an end to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, now entering its fourth year. He expressed on Telegram a commitment to achieving a “just and lasting peace.”
During the discussions, officials took a brief intermission, with Yermak updating on social media that “The work continues” alongside Ukrainian and U.S. flags. When queried about the progress, Witkoff responded that they were “getting there.”
Rubio indicated the U.S. aims to listen to Ukrainian officials regarding necessary conditions for peace, rather than proposing their own terms. He stated, “I think we want to listen to see how far they’re willing to go and then compare that to what the Russians want.” Rubio noted the importance of addressing concessions as a means to alleviate suffering in the region.
Ukrainian officials have suggested proposing a ceasefire, particularly in the Black Sea region, alongside strategies involving long-range missile strikes and the release of Ukrainian prisoners held in Russia. Negotiations may also include an agreement on Ukraine’s rare-earth minerals, potentially providing Washington access in exchange for investment.
Rubio mentioned that deals concerning rare earth and critical minerals could be established, though they would not be prerequisites for ongoing discussions with either Ukraine or Russia. He emphasized that defining the agreement’s details might be more prudent.
Past negotiations regarding the rare-earths deal became contentious after Zelenskyy’s White House visit in February. President Trump expressed skepticism about Zelenskyy’s readiness for peace, insisting any agreement must include substantial security guarantees against further Russian aggression. Subsequently, the U.S. reduced military assistance and intelligence sharing with Kyiv, a stance that might shift following constructive discussions in Jeddah.
The Kremlin continues to hold its position for ceasing hostilities, conditioned on Ukraine’s withdrawal from NATO aspirations and the recognition of regions under partial Russian control.
The commencement of peace talks between Ukraine and the United States in Jeddah represents a hopeful development amidst ongoing conflict. Both parties expressed willingness to negotiate crucial terms for a potential ceasefire and recognized the importance of concessions. The discussions may also pave the way for agreements on Ukraine’s minerals, reflecting a multifaceted approach to resolving tensions. The outcomes of these negotiations could significantly impact the future of Ukraine and its relationship with both the U.S. and Russia.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
