Zelenskyy Visits Saudi Arabia Ahead of Critical U.S. Talks
President Zelenskyy visits Saudi Arabia to meet Crown Prince Salman before critical U.S. talks aimed at ending the war with Russia. U.S. policy changes have raised concerns for Ukraine’s military support. Discussions will focus on a minerals deal and potential peace agreements amid increasing pressure on Zelenskyy to align with U.S. goals.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia for a crucial meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on March 10. This visit occurs ahead of significant discussions between Ukrainian and American officials regarding the resolution of the ongoing conflict with Russia, which is currently in a critical phase for Ukraine.
The United States, which has been Ukraine’s primary ally, has recently altered its wartime strategies in an effort towards a swift conclusion to hostilities. This shift includes direct engagement with Moscow and a reduction in military assistance to Ukraine.
During his visit, Zelenskyy aims to engage with Mohammed bin Salman, who has facilitated various mediating efforts since the onset of Russia’s invasion in 2022, including overseeing prisoner exchanges and hosting recent bilateral talks between Russia and the United States.
The upcoming discussions on Tuesday will mark the first formal meeting between U.S. and Ukrainian representatives since an unfavorable Oval Office encounter with then-President Donald Trump. These talks are anticipated to center around a bilateral minerals agreement and strategies for ending the war.
With significant pressure from Trump, who advocates for a rapid cessation of the war, Zelenskyy is striving to demonstrate alignment. However, he has encountered challenges in securing essential U.S. security guarantees critical for a peace agreement.
Zelenskyy has publicly indicated that he will not participate directly in the talks with U.S. officials, delegating attendance to his chief of staff and key ministers. He has expressed commitment to a constructive dialogue, stating, “On our side, we are fully committed to constructive dialogue, and we hope to discuss and agree on the necessary decisions and steps.”
Additionally, Trump special envoy Steve Witkoff noted efforts to establish a framework for peace and an initial ceasefire. Zelenskyy advocates for a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange, viewing this as a potential measure of Russia’s willingness to pursue peace.
Moscow, however, has dismissed proposals for a temporary truce, asserting they are attempts to delay military actions against Ukraine. In light of uncertain U.S. backing, Zelenskyy is also urging European allies to enhance their support as the situation on the battlefield becomes increasingly precarious.
Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region are reportedly in a vulnerable position, nearly encircled by Russian troops. Russia currently occupies approximately twenty percent of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, which has been under its control since 2014, and has intensified operations in the eastern Donetsk region. Recently, Russia has carried out extensive aerial assaults, totaling 1,200 guided bombs, 870 attack drones, and over 80 missiles directed at Ukraine in the past week alone, as per Zelenskyy’s reports.
In summary, President Zelenskyy’s visit to Saudi Arabia serves as a crucial step in navigating the complex dynamics of the ongoing conflict with Russia. The adjustments in U.S. policy pose challenges for Ukraine as it seeks to secure essential support from its allies while negotiating potential peace terms. The discussions ahead will be pivotal in determining Ukraine’s strategy and support frameworks during this tumultuous period.
Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com
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