Ukrainian President Zelenskyy will hold discussions with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia next week to seek peace regarding the conflict with Russia. President Trump is also expected to visit Saudi Arabia, indicating potential financial agreements. The talks will focus on establishing a peace agreement framework and likely include high-ranking officials from both countries.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that talks focused on ending the war with Russia will occur in Saudi Arabia next week, beginning with a meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman on Monday. Following this, Zelenskyy intends for his team to collaborate with U.S. officials, emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to achieving peace. He noted that discussions with the U.S. have resumed, expressing optimism for the upcoming meeting.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed his upcoming travel to Saudi Arabia but did not disclose exact dates. He mentioned that he agreed to visit in exchange for a substantial financial arrangement with Saudi Arabia, specifically a trillion-dollar deal spread over four years.
According to a Reuters report, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other senior officials are expected to arrive in Riyadh on March 11 for the discussions. Key Ukrainian aide Andriy Yermak will also attend. The talks follow recent tensions between Zelenskyy and Trump, suggesting that the U.S. delegation will include individuals who participated in earlier peace dialogues with Russia.
Discussions in Saudi Arabia are anticipated to focus on establishing a framework for a peace agreement and a preliminary ceasefire with Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, underscoring the constructive nature of Zelenskyy’s recent communication. Witkoff noted that a peace agreement and initial ceasefire were primary goals for the meeting, possibly set in Riyadh or Jeddah.
Tensions during a previous meeting between Zelenskyy and Trump on February 28 at the White House highlighted contentious issues over U.S. military aid. Trump and Vice President JD Vance expressed frustration over Zelenskyy’s behavior, questioning Ukraine’s approach to ceasefire negotiations. Zelenskyy challenged their assertions on diplomacy effectiveness, advocating for a more cooperative approach based on prior U.S. leadership strategies. Trump responded that acknowledging Russia and providing military support were essential for negotiations to continue.
The upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia mark a pivotal moment for Ukraine and the U.S. as they seek to address the ongoing conflict with Russia. With a focus on establishing a framework for peace and a ceasefire, the discussions aim to foster a collaborative relationship and explore potential financial agreements. Despite previous tensions, both parties appear committed to achieving a resolution.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
