Zelensky to Host US-Aid Talks in Saudi Arabia to Resolve Ongoing Conflict
Ukrainian President Zelensky will hold talks with US officials in Saudi Arabia next week to negotiate an end to the conflict with Russia. He emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to peace. Concurrently, EU leaders have approved a fund to strengthen European defenses against Russia, underscoring the urgency of securing stability in the region. Amidst mixed signals about future US support, discussions are critical for Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that discussions aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine with the United States will occur next week in Saudi Arabia. In his address on March 6, he confirmed plans to travel to Saudi Arabia on Monday, where his delegation will remain to engage in dialogue with American officials. Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to achieving peace, stating, “Ukraine is most interested in peace.”
During the European Union summit, leaders endorsed a €800 billion plan proposed by the European Commission to bolster Europe’s defenses against potential Russian aggression. Zelensky expressed gratitude to the EU leaders for their support, citing concerns over the prospect of unfavorable negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. He noted that discussions between Ukrainian and American negotiators had “resumed work” and expressed optimism for significant outcomes from the upcoming week’s meeting.
Washington has reportedly renewed talks with Kyiv to facilitate a ceasefire agreement with Russia, with US envoy Steve Witkoff indicating satisfaction with recent dialogues and the potential establishment of a framework for a long-term resolution. Witkoff confirmed meetings planned in Riyadh or Jeddah alongside the summit, where both Ukrainian and US officials are expected to convene next Tuesday.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen remarked that the summit represented a pivotal moment for Ukraine and Europe, particularly in light of the ongoing threat posed by Russia. The summit aimed to adjust defense spending significantly amid this heightened risk, with leaders like France’s President Emmanuel Macron advocating for increased defense expenditures and partnerships. Macron questioned Russia’s intentions and called for preparedness in the face of uncertainty regarding US support.
Amidst recent tensions following a controversial exchange between Trump and Zelensky, which led to a temporary halt in US military assistance, European nations are feeling the pressure to enhance their own security commitments. Zelensky’s Brussels visit highlights efforts to reaffirm partnerships and develop agreements concerning Ukrainian resources under US leadership. Meanwhile, Scholz reinforced that any peace discussions must ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty.
The diplomatic effort to establish a ceasefire includes proposals from France and Britain for a one-month truce covering various domains. Leaders are exploring what security guarantees the EU could offer, potentially encompassing the deployment of troops. While support remains strong, certain European states assert that sufficient funding is already allocated for Ukraine, potentially limiting new developments in financial assistance beyond the pre-established €30 billion for the year.
In conclusion, engagement between Ukraine and the United States is set to intensify with a critical meeting in Saudi Arabia scheduled for next week. With support from European leaders and a renewed focus on addressing security needs, both parties are navigating complex dynamics to reach a viable resolution amid ongoing tensions. The outcomes of these discussions will hold significant implications for the future stability of the region and Ukraine’s sovereignty.
The forthcoming discussions between Ukraine and the United States in Saudi Arabia signal a concerted effort to establish a ceasefire and pursue peace. As Zelensky underscores Ukraine’s need for support amidst growing fears of an unfavorable agreement, European leaders rally to bolster defense commitments. Despite a challenging context for financial assistance, the unity displayed among Ukraine, the EU, and the US serves as a crucial foundation for addressing ongoing security concerns and achieving lasting peace.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
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