Key Aspects of US-Ukrainian Talks in Saudi Arabia Highlighted by Zelenskyy
Ukrainian and US delegations will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss a resource agreement, military assistance, and negotiation formats with Russia. Mykhailo Podolyak emphasized that a unilateral ceasefire is not on the table, and these discussions are parallel processes. Key figures including Andriy Yermak and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff will participate in these critical talks.
In negotiations set to take place in Saudi Arabia, Ukrainian and US delegations will address three primary topics: a resource agreement, military assistance, and the framework for negotiations with Russia. This statement was made by Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor in the Ukrainian Presidential Office, during an interview on the RBC-Ukraine YouTube channel. Podolyak also emphasized that a unilateral ceasefire, without the intent of fostering a negotiation process, is not an option under consideration.
Podolyak clarified that there is no intertwining between a ceasefire and the signing of the mineral resources agreement, indicating that these discussions are occurring concurrently. Furthermore, he mentioned the dynamics of communication between the presidential administrations and noted that an official meeting in Riyadh is anticipated, paving the way for a US-Ukraine bilateral meeting.
The first major topic for discussion is the structure of the framework agreement between Ukraine and the US, which is currently under development. The second significant aspect is military assistance. Podolyak highlighted the importance of specific types of weaponry, noting that only the United States can supply certain critical arms, including Patriot missile systems, amidst ongoing Russian missile attacks.
The third focal point of the talks involves the potential formats for negotiations with Russia. Podolyak stressed the need to establish stages for discussion and better coordinate the positions of Ukraine, Europe, and the US.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the meeting of the Ukrainian and US delegations in Saudi Arabia, scheduled for Tuesday, March 11. US Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, indicated that the negotiations will also address the frameworks for a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia. Leading the Ukrainian delegation will be Andriy Yermak, the Head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office, with Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov also participating. The American contingent will comprise Special Envoy Witkoff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.
The upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia between Ukraine and the US will focus on resource agreements, military assistance, and the negotiation framework with Russia. Key figures from both nations will engage in discussions aimed at establishing a stronger bilateral relationship and addressing ongoing conflicts. Podolyak’s remarks emphasize the importance of coordinated military support from the US and a structured approach to negotiations with Russia, confirming that these discussions are essential under the current circumstances.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
