Ukraine Proposes Limited Ceasefire Plan in Talks with US Officials
Ukraine is set to propose a limited ceasefire plan involving prisoner exchanges and the return of abducted children during talks with US officials in Saudi Arabia. The discussions follow heightened Russian aggression and a suspension of US military aid. Both sides must make concessions to resolve the conflict, and potential mediation from Saudi Arabia is on the table for future peace agreements.
A Ukrainian delegation will propose a limited ceasefire plan during talks with top US diplomats in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. This plan aims to facilitate the exchange of prisoners and the return of children taken by Russia, as indicated by senior Ukrainian officials. Amid increasing Russian aggression, Ukraine hopes to solidify support from the United States, particularly in light of recent demands from President Donald Trump for concessions to conclude the ongoing conflict.
The upcoming discussions are the highest-level meeting since President Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for perceived ingratitude during a previous White House visit. Following the incident, Washington has suspended military aid, intelligence sharing, and satellite imagery access to Ukraine in an attempt to encourage negotiations.
President Zelensky, who previously addressed US officials in Jeddah, has delegated three aides to negotiate. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will be present, joining national security advisor Mike Waltz. Rubio expressed optimism about resolving the aid issue, stating, “Hopefully, we will have a good meeting and good news to report.”
During an earlier White House visit, Zelensky left without an agreement to grant the United States access to Ukrainian mineral resources as repayment for military support. Although Zelensky has indicated a willingness to negotiate, it is not the primary focus of the scheduled talks.
As Russia intensifies attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, Ukraine retaliated with drone strikes on Moscow, highlighting the ongoing conflict’s volatility. Ukrainian officials outlined their proposal for a ceasefire regarding air and sea operations, which they believe are straightforward to monitor and implement. Rubio noted that concessions from both sides are essential for a lasting resolution, emphasizing that the conflict cannot be resolved without mutual compromises.
During discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Zelensky conveyed Ukraine’s terms for permanent peace, including prisoner releases and the return of abducted children. He sought Saudi mediation in these matters, further articulating necessary security guarantees to prevent future conflicts.
While Rubio does not anticipate direct negotiations in Saudi Arabia that would draw the borders towards a final peace agreement, he intends to keep Russia informed of the discussions. Recent shifts in US policy have startled allies, prompting a reevaluation of strategies concerning Russia in light of its aggressive actions against Ukraine.
German and French officials have expressed dismay at US actions, with French Senator Claude Malhuret criticizing the perception of US dependence on Russia during a time of conflict. This complex diplomatic environment underscores the challenges at hand for all parties involved.
The proposed limited ceasefire plan by Ukraine seeks to create opportunities for peace amidst escalating tensions with Russia. High-level discussions with US diplomats aim to restore military and financial support for Ukraine, while both sides must navigate complex geopolitical landscapes and public sentiments regarding the conflict. The situation remains fluid as both Ukrainian and US leadership evaluate their negotiating positions to achieve a workable solution.
Original Source: www.france24.com
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