Ukrainian Delegation in Saudi Arabia Amid US-Russia Negotiations
A Ukrainian delegation has arrived in Saudi Arabia to prepare for President Zelenskiy’s visit amidst US-Russia negotiation discussions for peace in Ukraine. Ukrainian officials emphasize the need for direct representation in any negotiations. US envoys announce plans for meetings aimed at resolving the conflict, while the situation continues to evolve globally.
A Ukrainian delegation has arrived in Saudi Arabia to prepare for a potential visit by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. This comes amid speculation regarding upcoming US-Russia negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing war in Ukraine. Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko has stated that the delegation’s priority is to strengthen economic ties and possibly finalize important agreements with regional countries, although she did not confirm any connection to the US-Russia talks.
Andriy Yermak, an advisor to President Zelenskiy, indicated that direct meetings between Ukrainian and Russian representatives are unlikely in the near future. He expressed that discussions would only occur once a comprehensive plan to end the war is developed. Mykhailo Podolyak, another adviser, stated that Ukraine will not attend any US-Russia meetings in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing that there are no valuable negotiations on the table.
Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy to the Middle East, announced that meetings in Saudi Arabia would focus on negotiating a settlement to the war. Witkoff, alongside national security adviser Mike Waltz, aims to make progress in discussions directed by President Trump. Trump noted following a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin that the two sides agreed to commence negotiations soon.
Despite the announcement, Zelenskiy affirmed that any negotiations concerning Ukraine must include Ukrainian representation. This sentiment is echoed by European governments advocating for a role in the discussions. The backdrop includes Western isolation of Putin following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, alongside an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court issued in 2023 for the Russian leader.
Witkoff did not reference whether Ukraine might have to concede territory in any potential agreement, focusing instead on the need for trust-building and ending the conflict. He reiterated the directive from the president to initiate steps toward resolving the situation peacefully.
The recent arrival of a Ukrainian delegation in Saudi Arabia sets the stage for possible discussions surrounding President Zelenskiy’s visit, amidst ongoing US-Russia negotiations to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. While Ukrainian officials remain firm about having direct representation in discussions, US envoys are preparing to engage in high-level talks to seek a resolution. The situation remains fluid, with global implications as both regional and international governments push for their involvement in the peace process.
Original Source: www.lismorecitynews.com.au
