Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has announced that experts from Ukraine will join talks in Saudi Arabia with U.S. and Russian representatives, focusing on Black Sea shipping safety and peace settlement discussions. During his visit to Norway, he emphasized the need for increased European support for Ukraine, particularly urging EU leaders to approve military aid, while noting Norway’s significant commitment to assist Ukraine without incurring debt due to its wealth fund.

On Thursday, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine announced that Ukrainian experts will attend scheduled talks in Saudi Arabia alongside U.S. and Russian representatives, although they will not share the same room as the Russian delegates. These discussions, focused on the safety of shipping in the Black Sea and a potential peace settlement, are set to take place on Monday, as diplomatic momentum builds to resolve the ongoing conflict.

During his visit to Norway, Zelenskyy outlined the structure of the upcoming talks, indicating a collaboration where Ukraine and the United States will meet first, followed by diplomatic negotiations with Russia. He noted, “There will be technical teams present there,” signaling a careful approach to the dialogue. Additionally, he mentioned that Kyiv intends to create a list of facilities for a possible partial ceasefire, which may include energy, railways, and ports.

Addressing the need for enhanced European support, Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of backing Ukraine in light of differing opinions among EU nations. He urged EU leaders, gathered in Brussels, to endorse a military aid package of at least 5 billion euros for artillery purchases, stressing the necessity of ongoing pressure on Russia.

Zelenskyy criticized the slowdown of proposed military aid from EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, who had initially suggested a 40 billion euro budget but scaled it back amid resistance from certain countries. In a video address to the EU summit, he remarked on the detrimental effect of individual opposition to collective decisions, referring to Hungarian Prime Minister Víktor Orban’s objections.

While some EU nations struggle with their commitments, Nordic and Baltic countries, including Norway, continue to advocate for substantial support to Ukraine. Norway has committed to over doubling its financial aid to Ukraine in 2023, increasing it to 85 billion crowns (approximately $8.03 billion) for military purposes.

Historically, Norway stands out as the only European nation capable of enhancing aid without incurring debt due to its substantial sovereign wealth fund, which has significantly benefitted from increased gas sales to Europe since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine in 2022, accumulating assets of $1.8 trillion. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre confirmed that this financial support will be directed toward artillery, drone capabilities, and investments in Ukrainian industry.

In summary, President Zelenskyy’s announcement regarding the participation of Ukrainian experts in the upcoming talks signifies a strategic step towards diplomacy aimed at resolving the conflict. The ongoing discussions will promote international safety in the Black Sea and reflect Ukraine’s endeavors to secure robust European support, particularly from nations like Norway, which has committed substantial financial aid despite regional divergences. Zelenskyy’s appeals to EU leaders highlight the critical need for unity and decisive action in support of Ukraine’s military needs amidst the backdrop of external pressures.

Original Source: stratnewsglobal.com

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