U.S. and Ukrainian officials met in Saudi Arabia to discuss a Ukrainian plan for a partial ceasefire with Russia, which includes halting missile strikes and a truce for the Black Sea. The U.S., represented by Secretary of State Rubio, is focused on understanding Ukraine’s potential concessions amid ongoing discussions of military aid. A minerals deal was a side topic, with Russia and Ukraine urged to make difficult decisions for peace.
Discussions commenced on Tuesday between U.S. and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia, where Ukraine anticipated presenting a partial ceasefire proposal concerning Russia. The proposal seeks to suspend long-range missile strikes and include a truce for the Black Sea region. Notably, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was absent, with the Ukrainian delegation led by Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak and other key ministers.
Ahead of the meetings, President Zelenskyy emphasized the hope for “practical outcomes” via social media. The U.S. delegation was spearheaded by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, who represent President Donald Trump’s ambition to facilitate a rapid resolution to the ongoing conflict initiated by Russia’s invasion in early 2022.
Rubio expressed aspirations to address the ongoing pause in military aid to Ukraine, expressing that the U.S. is in a position to listen and understand potential concessions from the Ukrainian side. He remarked, “The Ukrainians are already receiving all defensive intelligence information as we speak,” underscoring the importance of resolving the issue soon.
Rubio also highlighted that detailed discussions would not revolve around specific boundaries in negotiations, but rather an understanding of possible concessions by Ukraine. He asserted that both parties need to make challenging decisions, reiterating that a military solution to the ongoing conflict remains unfeasible.
Later, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with Rubio and had a prior discussion with Zelenskyy in Riyadh. Additionally, President Trump has indicated a willingness to link further military support to Ukraine’s raw materials, essential for the U.S. economy. However, Rubio clarified that determining an agreement regarding Ukraine’s mineral resources was not the central theme of the talks.
Rubio also acknowledged the positive contributions of Britain and France in facilitating talks with Ukraine. Clarifying future strategies, he noted that there have been no discussions concerning China’s involvement in post-war peacekeeping or reconstruction efforts in Ukraine.
In conclusion, the recent U.S.-Ukrainian talks in Saudi Arabia aimed to advance a ceasefire proposal intended to halt missile strikes and ensure regional stability. While discussions surrounding military assistance are ongoing, a minerals deal was deemed a secondary concern. Both sides are endeavoring to navigate the complexities of the conflict while seeking practical solutions, underscoring the need for concessions from Ukraine and the collaborative efforts of involved nations.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
