The United States and Ukraine have initiated talks in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential ceasefire and the issue of US military aid. These discussions are underpinned by recent tensions in US-Ukraine relations following President Trump’s criticisms of Ukraine. While President Zelenskyy seeks constructive outcomes, Rubio has suggested that territorial concessions may be necessary for peace.

A delegation from the United States, headed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has commenced discussions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with a Ukrainian delegation led by Andriy Yermak, the Chief of Staff of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The focus of these negotiations is a proposal for a partial ceasefire aimed at halting aerial and maritime hostilities, as well as addressing the suspension of military aid and intelligence-sharing from the United States.

The talks arise amid strained US-Ukraine relations, exacerbated last month by President Trump’s confrontational stance toward President Zelenskyy concerning security guarantees and criticisms of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Following a notably harsh exchange, Trump suspended military aid, further complicating support for Ukraine during escalating Russian offensives in regions such as Kursk and Sumy. Rubio’s recent hostility towards Ukraine reflects an alarming shift in United States policy and has intensified concerns across Europe regarding Russian aggression.

In these discussions, President Zelenskyy expressed hopes for pragmatic engagement with the US, stating, “We hope for practical outcomes. Ukraine’s position in these talks will be fully constructive,” on social media. However, Rubio has indicated that Ukraine might need to concede territory to Russia for peace, a notion that he has not extended to Germany. This reflects a controversial trend in US policy that appears to disproportionately pressure Ukraine, while demanding little from Russia, the aggressor.

Rubio emphasized the necessity for a mutual understanding of Ukrainian concessions for achieving a ceasefire, acknowledging the challenging dynamics of the conflict. He stated, “We have to understand the Ukrainian position and just have a general idea of what concessions they’d be willing to make, because you’re not going to get a ceasefire and an end to this war unless both sides make concessions…”

In summary, the US and Ukrainian delegations are engaged in significant discussions aimed at establishing a potential ceasefire and addressing military aid issues amidst declining relations. Despite Zelenskyy’s constructive aspirations, Rubio’s remarks suggest a readiness for Ukraine to make territorial concessions. This unfolding situation reflects broader implications for US foreign policy and regional security in Europe as they confront renewed Russian aggression.

Original Source: www.firstpost.com

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