Negotiations between Ukraine and the U.S. have begun in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, focusing on ceasefire proposals and access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals. The talks follow a recent military surge by Russia, which intercepted numerous Ukrainian drones. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio seeks to understand Ukraine’s position without imposing preconditions, while Russia demands the cessation of NATO ambitions from Ukraine and recognition of occupied territories.

High-stakes negotiations between Ukraine and the United States commenced in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on March 11, 2025. The meeting took place at a luxury hotel in the Red Sea port city, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaging with Ukrainian officials amid a tense atmosphere following a recent dispute during President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s February visit to the White House. Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister was present, and the room showcased American, Saudi, and Ukrainian flags.

The discussions coincide with a significant Russian military offensive, wherein Russian air defenses reportedly intercepted 337 Ukrainian drones over ten regions. Amidst this backdrop, Ukrainian officials informed the Associated Press that they would propose a ceasefire encompassing the Black Sea, enhancing maritime safety, addressing long-range missile strikes targeting civilians, and facilitating prisoner exchanges.

Russia, however, has stipulated that any cessation of hostilities is contingent upon Ukraine retracting its NATO membership application and recognizing occupied territories as Russian. Currently, Russian forces maintain battlefield momentum and have intensified their efforts along the eastern Donetsk region.

In the aftermath of the drone interceptions, Russian authorities reported widespread damage from over 70 drones aimed at Moscow, marking the most extensive assault on the capital since the onset of the conflict. Several residential buildings were impacted, and flights in and out of multiple airports faced temporary restrictions due to security concerns.

As the negotiations unfolded in Saudi Arabia, Secretary Rubio was joined by national security adviser Mike Waltz. Reports indicated that Kyiv is prepared to discuss access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, a strategic focus for the United States. Rubio emphasized that the American delegation aims to listen to Ukraine’s position without imposing preconditions, seeking common ground to facilitate discussions with both Ukraine and Russia.

Rubio expressed that signing a deal pertaining to critical minerals could occur during their meeting, yet he indicated that this was not a prerequisite for advancing talks. He also noted that further negotiations might be necessary to refine the existing broad memorandum of understanding on rare earth minerals, emphasizing the importance of understanding both Ukraine’s and Russia’s respective positions before progressing further in discussions.

In summary, high-stakes talks between Ukraine and the United States have initiated in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, amidst ongoing military actions from Russia. The negotiations center around potential ceasefire proposals and access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, while both sides navigate challenging demands and conditions. The outcome of these discussions could prove pivotal in shaping the future of diplomatic relations and conflict resolution.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com

Related posts:

Ukraine-US Talks on Ending Conflict Initiated in Saudi Arabia Amid Drone Attacks Ukraine-U.S. Talks in Saudi Arabia Amid Drone Attacks on Russia Ukraine Launches Drone Attack on Russia Ahead of Key U.S. Talks in Saudi Arabia High-Stakes Talks Between Ukraine and the United States Begin in Saudi Arabia