Zelenskiy Engages in Talks in Saudi Arabia Ahead of Critical U.S. Discussions
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is set to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Saudi Arabia, ahead of crucial talks with U.S. officials regarding the conflict with Russia. The U.S. has shifted its approach, seeking quick engagement with Moscow while limiting support for Kyiv. Zelenskiy aims to align U.S. interests with Ukraine’s needs, amidst pressures for concessions in the discussions.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is traveling to Saudi Arabia to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday. This visit precedes important discussions between Ukrainian and U.S. officials aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict with Russia amid an increasingly challenging situation for Ukraine. The United States has altered its policies, engaging with Moscow while limiting military support and intelligence sharing with Ukraine.
Zelenskiy’s meeting with the Saudi crown prince follows various mediation efforts by Saudi Arabia since the outset of Russia’s invasion in 2022, including brokering exchanges and facilitating previous talks. The forthcoming talks with U.S. officials mark the first official meeting since a controversial encounter between Zelenskiy and former U.S. President Donald Trump, with a focus on a minerals deal and strategies for ceasing hostilities.
Under pressure from Trump, who desires a swift resolution to the conflict, Zelenskiy acknowledges the need for alignment with U.S. interests while still seeking vital security guarantees for Kyiv. The Ukrainian delegation at the upcoming meeting will consist of his chief of staff, the foreign and defense ministers, and a senior military official in the presidential administration.
Zelenskiy expressed a commitment to constructive dialogue, stating, “We are fully committed to constructive dialogue, and we hope to discuss and agree on the necessary decisions and steps. Realistic proposals are on the table.” U.S. officials will assess whether Ukraine is prepared to make concessions to Russia.
Trump emphasized optimism about the possibility of positive outcomes from the talks, indicating a near resumption of intelligence sharing with Ukraine. Special envoy Steve Witkoff aims to establish a foundational framework for peace and a potential ceasefire. Zelenskiy has advocated for an air and sea truce, alongside a prisoner exchange, viewing this as a measure of Russia’s dedication to peace.
Despite proposals for a temporary truce from allied nations, Russia has dismissed such suggestions. Additionally, Zelenskiy has indicated readiness to finalize a minerals deal with the U.S. to ensure ongoing support. Given the uncertain backing from the U.S., Zelenskiy is intensifying calls to European allies for increased assistance as Ukraine’s military position worsens.
Current assessments reveal that Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region are in a precarious position, surrounded by Russian troops. Russia maintains control over approximately 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including Crimea and is intensifying its military efforts in the Donetsk region, as evidenced by a significant uptick in aerial attacks over the last week.
In conclusion, President Zelenskiy’s visit to Saudi Arabia and subsequent talks with U.S. officials are crucial for strategizing a potential end to the conflict with Russia. The shifting dynamics of U.S. support and the pressing need for Ukraine to explore realistic compromises may shape the outcomes of these discussions. As regional pressures mount, fostering collaboration among allies remains paramount for Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
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