Ukraine aims to propose an aerial and naval ceasefire during talks with the U.S. in Saudi Arabia, following recent diplomatic tensions. The discussions mark the first high-level engagement since the White House dispute concerning military aid. Zelenskyy emphasizes peace while seeking U.S. support to bolster Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.

Ukraine plans to propose an aerial and naval ceasefire to the United States during discussions in Saudi Arabia this week, following the recent tensions between President Donald Trump and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This meeting will mark the initial Ukraine-U.S. contact since a contentious exchange at the White House that resulted in the suspension of military aid to Ukraine. A Ukrainian official indicated that the ceasefire proposals could serve as practical starting points due to their ease of implementation and monitoring.

Zelenskyy asserts that Ukraine has continuously sought peace since the onset of the conflict and holds Russia accountable for its persistence. He expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Ukrainian forces defending their nation. Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before engaging with the U.S. delegation, emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to constructive dialogue while insisting on the importance of considering its interests adequately.

The U.S. aims to establish a framework for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire during these talks. Notable figures from the U.S. administration will be present, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. Zelenskyy’s negotiation team will comprise key officials from Ukraine’s foreign and defense ministries, indicating a serious approach to the discussions.

The United States has temporarily frozen military aid and intelligence-sharing with Ukraine, a move perceived as providing Russia with a potential advantage on the battlefield. A senior Ukrainian official has cautioned that prolonged U.S. aid suspension could significantly benefit Russian military efforts. In tandem with the ceasefire proposal, Ukraine hopes that resuming U.S. military assistance will contribute to a substantial resolution of the conflict.

Amidst this backdrop, Trump has shown renewed communication with Putin and has publicly criticized Zelenskyy, amplifying fears that the U.S. may pressure Ukraine into unfavorable terms in negotiations. Concurrently, Ukraine’s allies in Europe have reaffirmed their support for increased defense funding and strategies following discussions with Zelenskyy.

Following the incident at the White House, where Zelenskyy left without signing a desired minerals deal, he characterized the encounter as “regrettable.” In a letter to Trump, Zelenskyy extended an olive branch, suggesting openness to future cooperation and a willingness to complete the minerals agreement. The outcome of Zelenskyy’s upcoming engagements in Saudi Arabia, including the signing of any potential agreements, remains to be seen, but expectations are cautiously optimistic.

In summary, Ukraine is set to propose an aerial and naval ceasefire to the United States during talks in Saudi Arabia amidst recent tensions between President Trump and President Zelenskyy. The meetings represent a critical opportunity for both parties to navigate the ongoing conflict with Russia and seek a constructive path forward. Ukraine’s insistence on peace, paired with its need for resumed military aid, underscores the complexities of the current geopolitical landscape and potential ramifications for regional stability.

Original Source: www.news18.com

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