Ukraine’s Diplomatic Engagement Amid Ongoing Conflict
On March 21, 2025, Ukrainian President Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to U.S. talks while expressing doubts about Russia’s ceasefire intentions. Meetings in Saudi Arabia are scheduled for next week. Norwegian leaders emphasize support for Ukraine amid increased Norwegian aid, while U.S.-Russia discussions are also on the horizon, focusing on the conflict resolution and Black Sea initiative.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s dedication to diplomatic negotiations with the United States while expressing doubts regarding Russia’s commitment to a ceasefire. During a recent press conference in Oslo, he indicated that both Ukrainian and Russian representatives are set to meet their U.S. counterparts in Saudi Arabia on Monday to discuss Ukraine’s future. However, Zelensky remains skeptical about Russia’s willingness to agree to a ceasefire, emphasizing, “We are trying to take steps in the right direction.”
Zelensky’s visit to Norway marked his second official trip to the country, during which he held discussions with several key officials, including Finance Minister and former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, and Defense Minister Tore Sandvik. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store stressed the necessity of Ukraine’s participation in ceasefire negotiations, stating, “A strong European voice is important when discussing Ukraine’s future.”
In early March, the Norwegian parliament approved a substantial increase in aid to Ukraine by 50 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately 47.2 billion U.S. dollars), bringing the total assistance to 85 billion kroner by 2025. This funding will focus on artillery ammunition, drones, and investments in Ukraine’s defense industry, as elaborated by Prime Minister Store.
Additionally, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicated that upcoming U.S.-Russia discussions may occur early next week, possibly after the Sunday talks, which Washington previously announced. These discussions will center on the resolution of the Ukraine conflict and the Black Sea initiative, which were topics during a recent conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump.
In summary, President Zelensky of Ukraine is actively pursuing dialogue with the United States, facing skepticism about Russia’s commitment to a ceasefire. His recent discussions in Norway underscored the importance of Ukraine’s role in these talks, coupled with increased Norwegian aid. Concurrently, Moscow and Washington are preparing for discussions pertaining to Ukraine and maritime safety in the Black Sea, indicating ongoing international engagement in the conflict.
Original Source: www.dailyfinland.fi
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