President Zelenskyy of Ukraine has announced forthcoming talks with US officials in Saudi Arabia regarding peace efforts in Ukraine. This follows a tumultuous recent exchange with President Trump, who expressed doubts about Zelenskyy’s commitment to peace. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff will represent Trump in the discussions, which aim to shape a peace framework and ceasefire agreement.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that upcoming discussions with US officials regarding the resolution of the war in Ukraine will occur in Saudi Arabia next week. This decision follows a tumultuous exchange last week between himself and US President Donald Trump, which ended without any significant outcomes towards peace efforts and delayed a scheduled rare earths deal between the two nations.

Following the heated exchange, tensions escalated, with President Trump publicly expressing skepticism regarding Zelenskyy’s commitment to peace. Additionally, the new US administration made the contentious decision to suspend all military and financial assistance, alongside US intelligence support to Ukraine, which heightened concerns amidst ongoing negotiations.

In a hopeful development, Zelenskyy revealed via his Telegram channel that he will be engaging with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and subsequently meet with US officials in Saudi Arabia. Addressing the spat with Trump, he referred to it as “regrettable” and stressed Ukraine’s dedication to achieving a lasting peace. “Ukraine is most interested in peace,” he remarked.

Representing Trump at these crucial talks, US Special Envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism that discussions could lay the groundwork for a peace agreement and a potential ceasefire. Witkoff indicated that the meetings could occur either in Riyadh or Jeddah and highlighted Zelenskyy’s recent letter to President Trump, which embraced a tone of gratitude for US assistance to Ukraine.

US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce reinforced this sentiments, remarking on Zelenskyy’s awareness of the stakes involved. She underscored that the key figures able to facilitate negotiations are Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with Donald Trump positioned to bring them to the table. Trump himself commented on the evolving situation, maintaining that both Ukraine and Russia are compelled to negotiate due to their circumstances, yet he provided no further insights into the motivations behind Russia’s position.

In summary, President Zelenskyy is set to engage US officials in peace talks in Saudi Arabia following a difficult interaction with President Trump. This meeting reflects a commitment from Ukraine towards constructive negotiations, despite previous tensions and aid suspensions. With US officials observing renewed seriousness on Ukraine’s part, the discussions may pave the way for a ceasefire and a structured peace agreement, establishing the foundations for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Original Source: www.euronews.com

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