Zelenskyy Visits Saudi Arabia to Discuss US-Ukraine Relations Ahead of Key Meeting
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visits Saudi Arabia to engage in talks with US officials aimed at improving relations and restoring military aid following previous setbacks in Washington. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is also in attendance, though he will meet only with the Saudi Crown Prince. The discussions are crucial for shaping future US-Ukraine engagements and exploring options for peace negotiations amidst ongoing conflict.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has arrived in Saudi Arabia to engage in discussions with American officials regarding US-Ukraine relations. Although he will not participate in the meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Zelenskyy’s delegation aims to rectify the fallout from his previous visit to Washington, which resulted in a contentious confrontation with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The Ukrainian team seeks to restore military aid and intelligence crucial for Ukraine’s defense since the onset of Russia’s invasion in 2022.
Saudi state media confirmed Zelenskyy’s arrival in Jeddah, where the summit with US officials is scheduled for Tuesday. Following the end of the daily Ramadan fast, Zelenskyy is expected to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. While Rubio is also traveling to Jeddah, he will meet with the Crown Prince and not directly with Zelenskyy.
Rubio expressed that an understanding between Ukraine and the US, in alignment with President Trump’s administration, could expedite peace negotiations. He indicated a desire to explore Ukraine’s willingness to engage in peace discussions, recognizing the severe toll the war has taken on its people. Rubio emphasized the necessity of listening to Ukraine’s position and assessing it against Russian demands to identify potential areas of agreement.
In a separate development, British opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer communicated with President Trump prior to the summit. A statement from Downing Street reported that Starmer conveyed the UK’s commitment to facilitating lasting peace, and both leaders discussed economic cooperation previously addressed in Washington. They resolved to maintain communication on these key issues.
Furthermore, the European Union has decided to enhance its defense posture and allocate substantial financial resources for security in response to shifting US policies regarding Ukraine. A US intelligence official indicated that the pause in intelligence sharing for offensive purposes might be lifted during discussions in Saudi Arabia, opening pathways for collaboration in support of Ukraine.
In conclusion, President Zelenskyy’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies an important step in efforts to improve US-Ukraine relations following earlier tensions. The discussions will focus on restoring critical military aid and intelligence, while also potentially paving the way for future peace talks. The cooperation and dialogue among the involved nations, particularly with the EU’s commitment to security, underscore the broader implications of this diplomatic engagement.
Original Source: news.sky.com
