Ukraine will not attend upcoming US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, according to adviser Mykhailo Podolyak. The decision is influenced by ongoing discussions between Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy, focusing on previous tensions and potential future negotiations. US-Russia discussions on a ceasefire are set to proceed despite challenges.
Ukraine has confirmed its absence from the upcoming US-Russia negotiations in Saudi Arabia scheduled for March 23. Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to the head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office, stated that the talks will be bilateral between the US and Russia, and Ukraine does not intend to participate at this time.
Podolyak emphasized the importance of understanding the outcomes of the conversation between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy before determining Ukraine’s further involvement in negotiations. He noted, “The president wants to understand the contents of this call fully from Trump.”
Recalling a previous less-than-productive meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy, Podolyak highlighted emotional tensions, stating, “It was a fairly emotional conversation in the Oval Office, and it showed that contradictions had built up.” He noted these contradictions influenced the negotiations taking place in Saudi Arabia.
The US and Russia are set to revisit ceasefire discussions, as confirmed by US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. Meetings in Riyadh will focus on “expanding the partial ceasefire” previously discussed, particularly following a recent conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Amid these negotiations, the Kremlin has reportedly rejected Washington’s proposition for a comprehensive ceasefire while indicating a willingness to halt attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The talks and subsequent actions suggest ongoing complexities in addressing the conflict in Ukraine.
In summary, Ukraine has opted out of the US-Russia talks scheduled in Saudi Arabia, awaiting the results of a crucial phone call between Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy. Previous emotional conversations have highlighted existing tensions that will likely inform any future discussions. As both the US and Russia prepare to address ceasefire terms, the unfolding dialogue between key leaders remains critical in determining the trajectory of the Ukraine conflict.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
