United States and Ukrainian officials will convene in Saudi Arabia next week to discuss peace negotiations aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war. After recent tensions and a halt in US aid, both nations appear motivated to secure a deal, with Zelenskyy’s planned visit signaling commitment to dialogue. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff emphasizes the importance of establishing a framework for peace during these discussions.

Next week, high-level discussions will take place in Saudi Arabia between the United States and Ukrainian officials regarding a potential peace framework aimed at concluding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. This initiative follows the suspension of military aid and intelligence sharing by the US in light of recent tensions between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Steve Witkoff, the US Special Envoy, will meet with Ukrainian representatives to outline the parameters for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire. Witkoff remarked, “We are now in discussions to coordinate a meeting with the Ukrainians in Riyadh or even potentially Jeddah… I think the idea is to get down a framework for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire as well.”

President Zelenskyy has confirmed his travel to Saudi Arabia to engage with US officials, expressing Ukraine’s keen interest in pursuing peace. In a statement, he noted, “I am scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia to meet with the Crown Prince. After that, my team will stay in Saudi Arabia to work with American partners.”

This meeting marks the first significant engagement since a contentious altercation on February 28 led to strained relations and a halt in US support for Ukraine. However, Trump recently conveyed that Zelenskyy has expressed readiness to negotiate, stating, “he was ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible.”

President Trump expressed optimism regarding the progress towards a deal for both nations, asserting, “I think what’s going to happen is Ukraine wants to make a deal, because I don’t think they have a choice. I also think that Russia wants to make a deal… they have no choice either.”

Witkoff indicated that Zelenskyy had shown remorse regarding their previous diplomatic incident, although he expressed uncertainty over the likelihood of a minerals deal being finalized during the Saudi meetings. The proposed agreement is viewed as a strategic move to strengthen ties between the US and Ukraine amidst ongoing efforts to resolve the conflict.

The forthcoming talks in Saudi Arabia signify a critical step towards establishing a peace framework to end the Russia-Ukraine war. With leaders from both nations seeking negotiations, this meeting aims to address the tensions following recent governmental disputes. The possible agreements could enhance economic cooperation and influence future actions by Russian leadership, all while underscoring the importance of diplomatic resolution in this conflict.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com

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