U.S. and Ukrainian officials are set to hold critical talks in Saudi Arabia focusing on a minerals deal and peace discussions to end the war with Russia. Tensions between Trump and Zelenskyy have surfaced, yet there are signs of possible reconciliation as both seek to advance discussions. The outcomes of these meetings carry significant implications for the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations.

In an effort to re-establish diplomatic relations, U.S. and Ukrainian officials are set to engage in high-stakes discussions in Saudi Arabia this week. These talks focus on a potential critical minerals agreement and paths to resolving the conflict with Russia that has persisted for three years. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will represent the United States, while Ukraine’s team includes senior officials such as Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak and Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha.

Ahead of these significant meetings, President Donald Trump expressed optimism, stating he expected positive outcomes from the discussions and anticipated Ukrainian agreement on the minerals deal. However, he expressed concerns that Ukrainian leaders have not demonstrated sufficient eagerness for peace, suggesting outcomes would surface in the coming days. In a separate Fox News interview, Trump acknowledged the potential risks of the situation, noting that Ukraine might “not survive anyway.”

Relations between Trump and Zelenskyy have recently become strained, particularly highlighted by an incident during an Oval Office meeting that disrupted Zelenskyy’s visit. During this meeting, disagreements arose over Ukraine’s lack of initiative to secure a peace agreement, prompting Trump to claim that Zelenskyy wanted security guarantees without efforts towards peace.

Despite the tension, there have been indications of reconciliation. Zelenskyy characterized the previous meeting as “regrettable” and expressed readiness to finalize the minerals deal. Additionally, Trump mentioned receiving an “important letter” from Zelenskyy affirming Ukraine’s willingness to sign the agreement. However, Trump later conveyed to reporters that interactions with Ukraine had become increasingly challenging, noting the ongoing violent assaults from Russia.

This diplomatic engagement occurs in Saudi Arabia, the same location where prior discussions between U.S. and Russian officials were held recently, raising concerns among European nations and Kyiv regarding their exclusion from negotiations, especially given Trump’s reportedly strong rapport with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The upcoming meetings in Saudi Arabia represent a crucial juncture for U.S.-Ukraine relations amid ongoing conflict. While both sides appear willing to cooperate on a critical minerals agreement, underlying tensions and divergent expectations regarding peace negotiations remain significant obstacles. The outcome of these discussions will be closely monitored, especially in light of the recent strained relations and Trump’s mixed messages about the commitment to Ukraine’s future support.

Original Source: ny1.com

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