U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio sees promise in Ukraine’s proposed ceasefire ahead of negotiations in Saudi Arabia. Ukraine plans to propose an aerial and naval truce while facing Russian skepticism. Key Ukrainian officials and U.S. delegates will engage in talks to explore peace options, highlighting the importance of compromise. U.S. military aid is currently paused amidst concerns over Ukraine’s commitment to negotiations.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism regarding Ukraine’s proposal for a partial ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Russia. This statement comes as U.S. and Ukrainian officials prepare for negotiations in Saudi Arabia. Rubio indicated that while the proposal alone may not be sufficient, it represents a necessary concession for conflict resolution.
Ukraine is anticipated to suggest aerial and naval truces during the talks. However, Russia has previously dismissed the notion of a temporary ceasefire, claiming it aims to delay Ukraine’s military efforts. Notably, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Saudi Arabia to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, though his role in the U.S.-Ukraine discussions is expected to be limited.
The Ukrainian delegation will consist of key advisers including Andriy Yermak, Ukraine’s head of office, and various national security and defense officials. Rubio will lead the U.S. delegation along with National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. Rubio emphasized the necessity of understanding Ukraine’s peace intentions while balancing the demands of both parties involved in the conflict.
He articulated that negotiations should focus on identifying the willingness of both parties to make necessary compromises, recognizing that there is no military solution to this war and that diplomatic avenues must be prioritized. This meeting follows a contentious previous visit by Zelensky to the White House and a pause in U.S. military aid intended to push Ukraine toward negotiations.
While expressing hope that the aid suspension could be resolved, Rubio highlighted the importance of Tuesday’s talks as crucial for the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations. He noted a perception that Ukraine had not engaged actively in the peace process, which influenced U.S. aid decisions.
Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, conveyed expectations of significant progress during the negotiations and mentioned potential discussions around a joint minerals deal between Ukraine and the U.S. security arrangements and territorial disputes would also feature prominently in the agenda. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has also been in correspondence with Trump about the discussions, emphasizing hopes for a favorable outcome that could resume U.S. support for Ukraine.
The backdrop to these negotiations includes Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which has seen it occupy approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory since February 2022, including Crimea, annexed in 2014.
Overall, the upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia present a critical opportunity for both U.S. and Ukrainian officials to explore avenues toward a partial ceasefire and potential resolutions to the enduring conflict. Acknowledging the need for concessions from both sides is essential in seeking a peaceful outcome. The discussions may also pave the way for resuming U.S. military support contingent on diplomatic progress.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
