Ukraine initiated a new round of talks with the US, marking a constructive start after recent tensions between leaders. Security guarantees from the US are a significant concern for Ukraine, as they seek to ensure any peace agreement is sustainable. The meeting followed a reported large-scale drone attack by Ukraine on Russia, illustrating ongoing hostilities.
A senior Ukrainian official announced that a new round of talks with the United States commenced positively, a significant relief for Ukraine following the recent public disagreement between President Donald Trump and President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, shared that the initial meeting was constructive, emphasizing the goal of achieving a just and lasting peace.
The delegation from Ukraine, which does not include President Zelensky, is engaging with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Both US officials participated in discussions with Russia last month, reflecting ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Waltz indicated progress was being made when asked about the talks, while Rubio stated that the US aimed to understand Ukraine’s position and potential concessions. Yermak, however, did not specify any compromises Ukraine might consider, underscoring the importance of security guarantees from the US to prevent future aggression from Russia.
Security guarantees remain a critical point of contention between the US and Ukraine, as Kyiv insists that any peace agreement must be founded on firm Western commitments. Notably, President Trump’s administration has yet to present substantive assurances regarding this matter, despite backing from many of Ukraine’s Western allies.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, stressed the urgent need to bolster Ukraine’s military supplies and provide robust security guarantees, arguing that Russian President Vladimir Putin cannot be trusted to adhere to agreements lacking such assurances.
Before the meeting, Yermak expressed the priority of initiating the peace process, stating the need for constructive dialogue with American officials. The discussions coincided with reports of a significant Ukrainian drone attack on Russia, which the Russian defense ministry claimed had resulted in the downing of 337 drones, marking a considerable show of strength from Ukraine.
In summary, the recent talks between Ukraine and the United States began constructively, with discussions centered on achieving peace and addressing security guarantees. While concessions remain unspecified, the emphasis lies on fostering dialogue amidst ongoing conflict with Russia. The meeting highlights the complexities of international diplomacy in the face of military aggression and territorial occupation by Russian forces.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
