Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledges potential in Ukraine’s partial ceasefire proposal as talks commence in Saudi Arabia. The discussions aim to clarify Ukraine’s commitment to negotiations while addressing both parties’ needs for concessions. The outcomes of these talks could affect the future of US support and diplomatic efforts in resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia.
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism regarding Ukraine’s proposal for a partial ceasefire aimed at resolving the conflict with Russia. Ahead of upcoming discussions in Saudi Arabia, Rubio emphasized that such concessions are essential for establishing peace. The expected truce would involve aerial and naval agreements, although Russia has previously dismissed ceasefire initiatives as stalling tactics to weaken Ukraine’s military position.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Saudi Arabia to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman but is not directly involved in the US-Ukrainian talks. Instead, the Ukrainian delegation will comprise key officials including Zelensky’s Chief of Staff, Andriy Yermak, as well as national security advisers and defense ministers. The US delegation will include Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and envoy Steve Witkoff.
Rubio underscored that it remains crucial to clarify Ukraine’s commitment to a peace deal, suggesting that both Ukraine and Russia will need to make difficult concessions. He refrained from imposing specific conditions on Ukraine, opting instead to listen and assess their readiness to negotiate compared to Russian demands. He asserted that there is no viable military solution to the ongoing conflict, underscoring the necessity for diplomatic resolutions.
In light of growing pressure from former President Donald Trump for a ceasefire without US security guarantees, negotiations mark a pivotal moment following recent tensions between Zelensky and the White House. The talks are crucial to relaunching military assistance, which was halted due to concerns about Ukraine’s commitment to the peace process.
Rubio acknowledged that the suspension of aid arose from perceived hesitations from Ukraine regarding negotiations, implying that improved commitment could lead to a shift in US support. Discussions will also touch upon security agreements for Ukraine and territorial matters. Trump’s envoy, Witkoff, indicated optimism for substantial progress during the discussions, highlighting Zelensky’s prior willingness to engage in a minerals deal with the US aimed at establishing a capital fund from Ukrainian resources.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also communicated with Trump ahead of the talks, expressing hope for outcomes that would facilitate the resumption of US aid and intelligence-sharing to Ukraine.
The upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia represent a significant opportunity to foster dialogue between Ukraine and Russia, potentially leading to a lasting ceasefire. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s comments highlight the necessity of both parties making significant concessions for peace, underscoring the importance of diplomatic solutions rather than military engagements. The outcome of these discussions could shape future US support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
