Zelenskyy Meets Saudi Crown Prince Ahead of Key US Talks on Ukraine Conflict
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy visits Saudi Arabia to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, focusing on peace discussions with the US amidst dwindling support. Key topics include a minerals agreement and ceasefire proposals, as Ukraine confronts increasing military challenges from Russia.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is visiting Saudi Arabia to confer with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ahead of critical discussions between US and Ukrainian officials concerning the conclusion of the conflict with Russia. This meeting occurs amidst shifting US support, which is now pursuing a rapid resolution to the war by engaging with Moscow and suspending military assistance to Ukraine.
Zelenskyy’s meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is significant, as Saudi Arabia has taken on various mediating roles since Russia’s invasion, including facilitating prisoner exchanges and hosting prior discussions between Russia and the United States. The upcoming talks, representing the first formal exchange since a turbulent meeting between Zelenskyy and former President Donald Trump, are anticipated to address a bilateral minerals agreement as well as strategies for ending hostilities.
Facing intense pressure from Trump for quick resolutions, Zelenskyy emphasizes shared objectives, despite not securing essential US security guarantees perceived as crucial for any lasting peace agreement. He will not be present at the discussions; instead, his delegation will consist of key advisors, including his chief of staff and defense ministers.
Zelenskyy has stressed the need for
“constructive dialogue,” and aims to conclude necessary agreements swiftly. Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, indicated that the objective is to establish a framework for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire. Additionally, Zelenskyy has argued for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange as a measure of Russia’s sincerity in pursuing peace.
Moscow has dismissed proposals for a temporary truce, suggesting they are merely an effort to delay Ukraine’s military responses. Zelenskyy has reiterated Ukraine’s readiness to finalize a minerals agreement with the US, which would facilitate a joint fund from mineral sales, deemed vital for ongoing US support. With American backing uncertain, Zelenskyy is seeking enhanced assistance from European allies as Ukraine’s military situation worsens amid increasing pressures.
Reports indicate that Ukrainian forces, previously advancing into the Kursk region, are now being encircled by Russian troops. Russia’s military presence amounts to controlling approximately 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including Crimea, and has intensified strikes in the Donetsk region. Recent measures have included the use of substantial aerial bombardments, marking a heightened aggressiveness in the conflict.
In summary, President Zelenskyy’s visit to Saudi Arabia underscores the urgent necessity of diplomatic engagement as the US reassesses its support for Ukraine amid shifting dynamics in the conflict with Russia. The anticipated discussions on mineral agreements and potential frameworks for peace highlight the ongoing complexities within the conflict. With Russian military pressure mounting, the call for unity among European allies is paramount as Ukraine navigates this precarious juncture.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
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