Ukraine and U.S. Delegates Initiate Crucial Talks in Jeddah

Ukrainian and U.S. delegates commenced important meetings in Jeddah on March 11, addressing military aid, intelligence support, and potential ceasefire initiatives amid strained relations due to a recent exchange between President Zelensky and President Trump.

Delegates from Ukraine and the United States commenced vital talks in Jeddah on March 11, focusing on the potential future of U.S. support for Ukraine and efforts to address the ongoing conflict with Russia. Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry officially announced the meeting, emphasizing its significance in shaping diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The Ukrainian delegation features key officials, including President Volodymyr Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and Deputy Chief of Staff Pavlo Palisa. The U.S. delegation is led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.

This meeting aims to restore relations following a recent disagreement between President Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump, which led to the U.S. suspending military aid and intelligence support for Ukraine, hampering its defensive capabilities against Russian aggression.

Ukrainian officials are expected to advocate for a revival of U.S. military assistance and intelligence cooperation during the discussions. According to reports, proposals will include a ceasefire agreement as an initial step toward a comprehensive peace settlement.

Throughout the journey to Jeddah, Secretary Rubio indicated that any peaceful resolution would necessitate territorial concessions from Ukraine. The meeting seeks actionable outcomes, particularly concerning existing deals on minerals that were previously delayed following the White House disagreement.

Rubio emphasized, “The most important thing that we have to leave here with is a strong sense that Ukraine is prepared to do difficult things, like the Russians are going to have to do difficult things to end this conflict or at least pause it in some way, shape or form,” as stated to reporters on March 10. Furthermore, U.S. officials had earlier engaged with Russian representatives in discussions aimed at restoring bilateral relations without Ukrainian involvement.

The meeting in Jeddah marks a pivotal moment for Ukrainian and U.S. diplomacy amidst ongoing tensions with Russia. With high expectations, both delegations aim to address military support and propose ceasefire initiatives to foster peace. This dialogue is essential for improving relations, particularly following the recent strains between the leaders of the two nations.

Original Source: kyivindependent.com