Ukrainian officials are scheduled for high-stakes talks with U.S. counterparts in Saudi Arabia to resume intelligence-sharing and military aid. President Zelenskyy aims for swift negotiations to resolve the war with Russia and proposes a limited ceasefire to regain U.S. support. The meetings follow Ukraine’s tactical withdrawals and represent a recalibration of its diplomatic approach.

Ukrainian officials are preparing for crucial discussions with U.S. counterparts in Saudi Arabia, focused on reinstating intelligence-sharing and military aid that was halted during President Donald Trump’s administration. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy aims to advocate for rapid negotiations to conclude the ongoing conflict with Russia, according to sources cited by the Financial Times.

Negotiators from Ukraine are proposing a limited ceasefire targeting long-range drone and missile strikes, along with military operations in the Black Sea, to secure renewed support from the United States. The urgency of these talks follows Ukraine’s recent military withdrawals from territories it previously occupied in the Kursk region, which highlighted the repercussions of the aid suspension by the U.S. Ukrainian officials believe that advancing ceasefire discussions is vital to restoring military and intelligence support from Washington.

President Zelenskyy’s visit to Saudi Arabia is featuring meetings with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and formal negotiations commencing on Tuesday. Andriy Yermak, head of Zelenskyy’s office, will lead Ukraine’s delegation, which includes prominent officials such as Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha and Defence Minister Rustem Umerov. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will also participate in the discussions, aiming to further the U.S. government’s objectives for resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The negotiations are set against the backdrop of a February 28 meeting at the White House, which saw increased tensions between Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy regarding Ukraine’s strategic direction in the war. Since then, Ukraine has shifted its strategy to adopt a more conciliatory approach to reestablish relations with the U.S.

Trump has shown hesitance to resume military support to Ukraine. In a recent Fox News interview, although he expressed his confidence regarding an impending U.S.-Ukraine minerals agreement, he did not emphasize the significance of the Saudi discussions. Reports indicate that a minerals deal alone would be inadequate for Trump to consider reinstating aid, as he demands concessions from Ukraine regarding peace negotiations, potential territorial compromises, and even discussions about Zelenskyy’s presidency.

European allies have expressed their support for Ukraine’s diplomatic initiatives. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated the close cooperation between Brussels and Kyiv. Furthermore, a coalition of around 20 nations, including the UK and France, have deliberated options to sustain support for Ukraine should a ceasefire be achieved, despite Trump’s lack of commitment to such a strategy.

To facilitate U.S. assistance, Ukraine has outlined a gradual ceasefire plan, commencing with the cessation of aerial assaults and naval activities, as well as strikes on civilian and energy infrastructure. This would eventually lead to prisoner exchanges and the return of Ukrainian children forcibly relocated to Russia. Nevertheless, Moscow remains skeptical of these diplomatic overtures, with Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova denouncing Ukraine’s tactics, asserting that a mere respite would be unacceptable without reaching a comprehensive settlement.

In conclusion, the forthcoming U.S.-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia emphasize Ukraine’s attempts to reinstate military and intelligence support following the suspension during the Trump administration. As Ukrainian officials advocate for a ceasefire and diplomatic negotiations, the complexities of U.S. involvement and Russia’s skepticism persist. Strengthening ties with Washington is pivotal for Ukraine as European allies signal their support amid these discussions.

Original Source: www.firstpost.com

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