President Zelenskyy of Ukraine has arrived in Saudi Arabia for a meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ahead of a summit with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This meeting focuses on repairing relations after a contentious February visit to Washington, with military aid negotiations and peace talks with Russia at stake.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Monday for discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ahead of a summit with U.S. officials. His team aims to mend relations following a contentious February meeting in Washington that resulted in disagreements with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance regarding military aid for Ukraine, crucial since Russia’s invasion in 2022.

Saudi state media confirmed Zelenskyy’s presence in Jeddah, where he is expected to meet with the crown prince post-sunset, after Ramadan fasting. Concurrently, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is traveling to Jeddah but it appears no direct meeting between him and Zelenskyy will occur.

Onboard his flight, Secretary Rubio stated that he and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz would evaluate Ukraine’s responses. Understanding Ukraine’s willingness to engage in peace negotiations with Russia is critical, as it may facilitate the Trump administration’s peace talks initiative. Rubio emphasized the severity of the conflict for Ukraine and acknowledged the difficulties of discussing concessions after such extensive suffering.

Zelenskyy will be accompanied by key advisors including Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak and Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha at tomorrow’s talks, with Rubio leading the U.S. delegation. Meanwhile, skepticism among European allies persists, particularly following the EU decision to enhance defensive measures amidst concerns over U.S. policy shifts regarding Ukraine.

White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff clarified that while there is a pause on certain U.S. intelligence-sharing initiatives, information necessary for Ukraine’s defense remains accessible. It is indicated that discussions may pave the way for restoring previously curtailed offensive intelligence-sharing during the meetings in Saudi Arabia.

In summary, President Zelenskyy’s visit to Saudi Arabia represents a crucial step in restoring Ukraine’s relationship with the United States amidst ongoing military support discussions. With his team preparing for talks with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the emphasis is on exploring potential avenues for peace while ensuring Ukraine receives necessary defensive intelligence. This engagement is essential not only for Ukraine but also for European allies as they pursue enhanced security measures in light of U.S. policy adjustments.

Original Source: apnews.com

Related posts:

Zelenskyy Meets Saudi Crown Prince Ahead of Key U.S. Summit Zelenskyy in Saudi Arabia: Aiming for Peace Talks with U.S. Support Zelenskyy Visits Saudi Arabia for Crucial Talks on Military Aid and Peace Negotiations Zelenskyy’s Saudi Trip: A Bid for Military Aid and Peace Talks with U.S.