Zelensky’s Visit to Saudi Arabia: Diplomatic Efforts Ahead of Ukraine-US Talks
President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on March 10 to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The visit follows delayed plans due to previous bilateral Ukraine-Russia talks. His team will engage U.S. delegates on March 11 regarding a potential peace agreement. Notably, Zelensky is not participating in negotiations amid recent tensions with U.S. leaders, including the end of U.S. military aid to Ukraine.
On March 10, President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, according to reports from The Guardian. Originally, Zelensky planned to conduct a Middle East tour in February, but he delayed his visit due to bilateral talks between the United States and Russia held in Riyadh on February 18.
Historically, Gulf nations have served as mediators between Russia and Ukraine, particularly concerning issues like prisoner exchanges. Following his meeting with the crown prince, President Zelensky’s team is scheduled to engage in talks with U.S. delegates on March 11, focusing on the potential framework for a peace agreement. While Zelensky will not be directly involved in these negotiations, key members of his administration will participate.
Notably attending the talks will be Zelensky’s Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and Deputy Chief of Staff Pavlo Palisa. These discussions will follow a significant dispute between Zelensky and U.S. leaders, including President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, that occurred on February 28.
As a result of the recent tensions and disagreements, U.S. military assistance and intelligence sharing with Ukraine have reportedly concluded. Zelensky’s current visit and the subsequent talks present an opportunity to reassess the diplomatic landscape and explore avenues for peace amid ongoing conflict.
In summary, President Zelensky’s trip to Saudi Arabia underscores ongoing diplomatic efforts to mediate relations between Ukraine and Russia. His discussions with the Saudi Crown Prince and the subsequent meetings with U.S. officials may pave the way for future peace agreements, despite the backdrop of heightened tensions and reduced U.S. military support for Ukraine. Key figures from Zelensky’s administration are poised to engage in crucial talks that may shape the direction of future negotiations.
Original Source: kyivindependent.com
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