U.S. and Ukrainian officials are set to meet in Jeddah to discuss peace strategies regarding the conflict with Russia. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the need for Ukraine to make significant concessions. President Zelenskyy is advocating for peace talks that ensure deterrence against Russian aggression. A proposal for a partial ceasefire is on the table, while concerns mount over recent Ukrainian drone strikes against Russia.
Ukrainian and American delegates are convening in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to discuss strategies aimed at concluding Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. This meeting follows a period of tension characterized by an explosive meeting between President Trump, President Zelenskyy, and Vice President Vance. Trump has publicly criticized Kyiv, attributing the stalled peace talks to the Ukrainian government and temporarily halting U.S. military support.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the necessity for Ukraine to demonstrate a willingness to undertake significant concessions. While President Zelenskyy is not participating directly in the discussions, he has communicated his commitment to peace negotiations, asserting that any agreement must adequately deter future Russian threats. Ahead of the talks, Zelenskyy conferred with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman about establishing a sustainable peace and focused on critical issues such as prisoner releases.
Zelenskyy stated a Ukrainian delegation would remain in Saudi Arabia to engage with the U.S. team, expressing hope for tangible results from the discussions. Meanwhile, Rubio will lead the American contingent, which includes national security adviser Mike Waltz and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. Ukraine’s negotiating group encompasses key figures such as Andriy Yermak and Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, all set to protect Ukraine’s interests and outline a clear strategy for conflict resolution.
The Trump administration is urging Ukraine to consider concessions to advance a peace agreement, including a suggested minerals-sharing arrangement intended to recoup American support. Rubio acknowledged that difficult concessions are expected from Russia, but specific proposed actions from Moscow remain undisclosed. Reports indicate Ukraine intends to advocate for a partial ceasefire covering remote air strikes and maritime conflicts, though the duration of such a ceasefire is yet to be determined.
Rubio expressed cautious optimism regarding the Ukrainian proposal, suggesting that it is a necessary step for potential conflict resolution. However, he clarified that while securing the minerals deal is crucial, it is not the predominant focus at this moment. Interestingly, this meeting follows Ukraine’s largest drone offensive against Russia, with Russian officials claiming to have intercepted hundreds of drones. In response to inquiries about the drone strikes potentially disrupting ceasefire discussions, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov remarked that actual negotiations had not yet commenced.
The upcoming talks in Jeddah represent a critical attempt to navigate the complexities underlying the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. With leaders emphasizing the need for concessions on both sides, particularly from Ukraine, the discussions aim to establish a framework for peace that includes security guarantees and a potential partial ceasefire. Despite the challenges, hopes for a constructive dialogue remain as both parties prepare to engage with the pressing issues at hand.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
