U.S. Secretary of State to Evaluate Ukraine’s Peace Commitment in Jeddah Talks
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet with Ukrainian officials in Jeddah to evaluate Ukraine’s stance on achieving a realistic peace amidst ongoing military tensions with Russia. The discussions will also focus on a significant minerals deal and the need for Ukraine to demonstrate its commitment to peace. Former President Trump has expressed concerns regarding Ukraine’s resource situation amidst these negotiations.
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to travel to Jeddah on Sunday for discussions with Ukrainian officials, led by Andriy Yermak, a senior aide to President Zelenskiy. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff will accompany him. U.S. officials have indicated their intention to evaluate whether Ukraine is truly interested in a realistic peace, as opposed to simply seeking territorial restoration based on 2014 or 2022 borders.
The discussions are critical, as European allies stress that Ukraine must engage in negotiations with Russia from a position of strength, rather than hurry to the negotiating table. President Zelenskiy has suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin lacks genuine intentions for peace, warning that instability may ensue if Ukraine does not achieve a clear victory in its conflict.
Former President Trump expresses optimism regarding progress in the talks while simultaneously emphasizing Ukraine’s need to expedite peace negotiations, highlighting concerns about Ukrainian resources and manpower. Recent strategic decisions from his administration include halting weapon supplies and limiting intelligence sharing, fueled by accusations of Ukraine’s insufficient openness towards peace.
Further complicating the discussions, Russian military advances in eastern Ukraine continue. U.S. and Ukrainian officials have acknowledged a rekindled relationship despite prior tensions, as exemplified by statements made after Zelenskiy’s previous meeting with Trump. The National Security Council spokesperson noted the potential for positive developments arising from the Jeddah meeting, which aims to explore framework options for ceasefire and peace.
A significant point of the agenda is a minerals deal, previously intended for signing during Zelenskiy’s Washington visit, which includes a U.S. security guarantee in exchange for access to Ukrainian mineral resources. Although both parties have signaled renewed interest, the agreement remains unsigned, contingent upon Ukraine demonstrating a serious commitment to peace.
The upcoming Jeddah meeting represents a pivotal moment for U.S.-Ukraine relations and the broader peace negotiations with Russia. The dialogue aims to assess Ukraine’s commitment to a feasible peace and to explore frameworks for future agreements, including a minerals deal. As external pressures and military dynamics evolve, the effectiveness of these discussions remains crucial in addressing the ongoing conflict and restoring stability in the region.
Original Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com
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