American and Ukrainian officials are convening in Jeddah to discuss a potential ceasefire and reset bilateral relations after recent tensions. Key figures, including Secretary Rubio, emphasize the necessity for Ukraine to make difficult concessions. A Ukrainian delegation is set to propose a partial ceasefire as part of legal and security agreements, amid ongoing conflict activities.

Ukrainian and American officials are convening in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for important talks aimed at ending the ongoing conflict initiated by Russia three years ago. Following recent tensions between Presidents Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the meeting is viewed as an opportunity to reset relations. Rubio emphasized that the U.S. expects Ukraine to take challenging steps during these discussions.

Zelenskyy has expressed his commitment to achieving peace, provided that any agreements firmly deter future Russian aggressions. Although he will not be participating in the talks, he had a prior meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman where he discussed conditions for a lasting peace and highlighted the need to address prisoner releases as a step to build trust.

A Ukrainian delegation, comprised of key officials from Zelenskyy’s office, will collaborate closely with the U.S. team during the talks. Zelenskyy declared that their approach will be constructive, aiming for practical outcomes that align with Ukrainian interests. The American contingent includes prominent figures, such as national security adviser Mike Waltz and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.

Discussions on a peace agreement have included U.S. requests for Ukraine to make concessions in exchange for security assurances and ongoing military support. Additionally, the U.S. government has shown interest in Ukraine signing a controversial minerals sharing agreement to facilitate recovery of aid given to Ukraine since 2022.

Reports indicate that Ukraine may propose a partial ceasefire regarding long-range air strikes and naval attacks, although the specific timetable for such a truce remains uncertain. Rubio noted that while the proposal may not be the sole solution needed to conclude the conflict, it represents a critical step in the peace process.

Interestingly, these diplomatic efforts coincided with Ukraine’s largest drone operation against Russian targets, which occurred just hours before the talks commenced. Despite the continued hostilities, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that no formal negotiations had yet begun, thereby asserting there was nothing to disrupt at this time.

In summary, the upcoming U.S.-Ukraine talks in Jeddah represent a critical juncture in efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict with Russia. Both sides are under pressure to make difficult decisions, with Ukraine proposing a potential partial ceasefire. The delegation aims to foster constructive dialogue while addressing essential concerns including security guarantees and military aid agreements. These discussions occur against the backdrop of continuous military operations, highlighting the complexities faced in achieving lasting peace.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com

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