U.S. and Ukrainian officials are in talks in Saudi Arabia to discuss a proposed ceasefire plan with Russia, aiming to halt long-range missile strikes and establish a Black Sea truce. Key negotiations revolve around U.S. military aid and potential agreements on Ukrainian mineral resources, although the primary focus remains on Ukrainian concessions and practical outcomes as articulated by President Zelenskyy.
U.S. and Ukrainian officials have commenced discussions in Saudi Arabia, where Ukraine is anticipated to propose a partial ceasefire plan with Russia. This plan is expected to include a halt to long-range missile strikes and establish a truce in the Black Sea region. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not attend the meetings, but was represented by notable officials including Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and military commander Pavlo Palisa.
Prior to the talks, President Zelenskyy expressed hopes for “practical outcomes” via a statement on X. Leading the U.S. delegation, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz are focused on addressing the pause in U.S. aid to Ukraine. Rubio indicated that the U.S. aims to understand what concessions Ukraine may be willing to offer, stating, “We’re not going to be sitting in a room drawing lines on a map, but just get a general sense of what concessions are in the realm of the possible for them.”
The discussions also touched on a potential mineral agreement, which has garnered interest from former President Donald Trump as a condition for continued military support to Ukraine. However, Rubio emphasized that the primary focus of the negotiations would not be on securing a minerals deal, despite its significance. He mentioned, “I wouldn’t prejudge tomorrow by whether or not we have a minerals deal.”
Rubio acknowledged the constructive roles played by Britain and France in discussions with Ukraine and clarified that there had been no dialogues regarding China’s involvement in post-war peacekeeping and reconstruction efforts in Ukraine. This visit marks Rubio’s second trip to Saudi Arabia during his tenure, with plans to engage in meetings with G7 foreign ministers in Canada following the talks in Saudi Arabia.
The ongoing discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia aim to establish a partial ceasefire with Russia, which includes significant components such as halting missile strikes and a Black Sea truce. While addressing military aid and potential mineral agreements, the focus remains on exploring Ukrainian concessions amidst hopes for practical outcomes. Collaborative efforts involving Britain and France are notable, although China’s role in post-war Ukraine has not been discussed.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
