The United States is set to assess Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate peace with Russia during impending talks in Saudi Arabia. This meeting follows tensions from President Zelensky’s February visit to the White House. Key US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, will interrogate Ukraine’s readiness for concessions while aiming to strengthen bilateral ties with the current US administration.
The United States is poised to evaluate Ukraine’s position on peace during critical discussions in Saudi Arabia, following tensions arising from President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent visit to the White House. This meeting signals the first engagement since the visit, where disagreements surfaced. US officials aim to ascertain if Ukraine is prepared to offer significant concessions to Russia to facilitate an end to the ongoing conflict.
Additionally, the US delegation will assess Ukraine’s commitment to strengthening relations with the Trump administration after the previous tensions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead the US delegation to Jeddah, accompanied by National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff. Ukrainian officials, spearheaded by Andriy Yermak, will participate in these discussions.
A US official emphasized the need for realistic negotiations, stating, “You cannot say ‘I want peace,’ and, ‘I refuse to compromise on anything.'” This indicates a call for pragmatism in the negotiations, as the US seeks to navigate the complexities of the situation with Ukraine and Russia.
In conclusion, the talks between the United States and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia represent a critical opportunity to reassess Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate peace with Russia. The outcome of these discussions could significantly influence future diplomatic relations and the trajectory of the ongoing conflict. The emphasis on the necessity for compromise highlights the challenges that lie ahead in achieving lasting peace.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
