U.S. officials will assess Ukraine’s readiness to negotiate with Russia during talks in Saudi Arabia, observing Ukraine’s approach to concessions and improving relations with the Trump administration. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead discussions with a Ukrainian delegation. A focus on a minerals deal and the historical context of U.S.-Ukraine relations will also be pertinent to the bilateral dialogue.

United States officials intend to assess Ukraine’s willingness to make concessions to Russia during an upcoming meeting in Saudi Arabia. This determination will be crucial to understanding Ukraine’s approach to ending the conflict. Key American officials will be present, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who will lead the discussions with Ukrainian officials, notably Andriy Yermak, a senior aide to President Zelenskyy.

The American delegation is particularly interested in gauging Ukraine’s commitment to improving relations with the Trump administration following a contentious meeting last month. One official emphasized the importance of pragmatic dialogue, stating, “You cannot say ‘I want peace,’ and, ‘I refuse to compromise on anything.’” Furthermore, the officials will analyze whether Ukraine is prepared to negotiate realistically rather than insisting solely on pre-2014 or 2022 territorial boundaries.

European allies of Ukraine assert that a peace agreement can only be reached from a position of strength, advising against hasty negotiations with Russian forces. President Zelenskyy has reiterated that Russian President Vladimir Putin seeks continued aggression rather than peace, forewarning that further attacks on European nations may follow if Ukraine does not robustly resist.

Previous discussions between U.S. and Russian officials in Riyadh have aimed at reestablishing communication pathways after a period of stagnation under the Biden administration. In recent weeks, President Trump has expressed concern regarding Ukraine’s operational capacity, implying an urgency for negotiations with the Russian side. His administration’s recent cuts to military aid signal a shift in the approach towards Ukraine’s efforts.

As conflict persists, Ukraine faces ongoing military challenges, with Russian advances noted in certain regions. NSC spokesperson Brian Hughes has suggested that despite past tensions, Zelenskyy has made some strides in mending U.S.-Ukraine relations. Hughes referenced Trump’s positive remarks following a recent addressed note from Zelenskyy, hoping for constructive outcomes from the Jeddah meetings.

The negotiations in Saudi Arabia also carry implications for a minerals deal between the U.S. and Ukraine, which has remained unsigned due to past discord between Zelenskyy and Trump. However, both parties have indicated renewed interest in finalizing this agreement, signaling a potential step towards closer cooperation.

Despite the ongoing turmoil, the outcome of the upcoming talks remains vital for both the Ukrainian people and international relations. The focus will undoubtedly remain on the feasibility of a peaceful resolution amidst escalating hostilities and complex diplomatic dialogues.

In summary, the upcoming U.S.-Ukraine meetings in Saudi Arabia will critically evaluate Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate with Russia. Key U.S. officials seek to establish whether Ukraine is prepared to make concessions while also assessing improvements in U.S.-Ukraine relations following prior tensions. Additionally, discussions surrounding a minerals deal may further influence U.S.-Ukraine cooperation, amidst the pressing need for a sustainable peace in a region fraught with ongoing conflict.

Original Source: indianexpress.com

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