U.S. and Ukrainian diplomats are meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to discuss ending the war with Russia. This is their first meeting since a contentious Oval Office exchange in which military aid to Ukraine was frozen. Ukrainian chief-of-staff Andriy Yermak emphasized the need for friendly relations and security guarantees.
Diplomatic representatives from Ukraine and the United States are engaging in discussions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, aimed at finding a resolution to the ongoing war instigated by Russia in 2022. This marks the first encounter between the two nations since a contentious meeting in the Oval Office in which President Trump and Vice President Vance criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Following the heated exchange, the Trump administration halted military aid and intelligence to Ukraine, leading Zelenskyy to strengthen relationships with European allies and extend conciliatory gestures to the U.S. He dispatched his chief-of-staff, Andriy Yermak, to Jeddah for discussions with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz.
Yermak expressed a willingness for positive engagement, stating, “We’re very open, and we want to have very constructive, friendly, partner conversation with our American partners.” He underscored the significance of security guarantees, as he stated, “we never want this aggression repeated in the future.”
The talks in Jeddah follow a series of extensive drone strikes conducted by both Ukraine and Russia on each other’s territories, escalating tensions further. The situation remains fluid, and updates will continue to unfold as developments occur.
In conclusion, the ongoing talks in Jeddah between Ukrainian and U.S. officials reflect a desire for constructive dialogue following recent diplomatic tensions. Ukraine seeks to reinforce its security guarantees and foster friendly relations with the United States, particularly in light of the current conflict with Russia. The situation is dynamic, and further updates will be forthcoming.
Original Source: news.wjct.org