The U.S. and Ukraine are set to hold ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, building on a recent positive dialogue between leaders. Russia is also expected to partake in negotiations. Tensions persist as Zelensky criticizes Putin’s reluctance to agree to a ceasefire, emphasizing the critical nature of these discussions for Ukraine’s military situation.
Delegations from the United States and Ukraine are scheduled to convene on Sunday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to advance discussions regarding a tentative ceasefire proposal concerning the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Both nations confirmed their commitment to these negotiations earlier in the week, indicating that Russia would also be involved in the discussions. This development follows a constructive conversation between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during which it was expressed that a resolution to the war, which has now persisted for three years, seems increasingly attainable.
The meetings on Sunday between the U.S. and Ukraine will be followed by a separate session between the U.S. and Russia expected to occur on Monday, as reported by CNN. There are likely to be additional summits between the nations as the situation progresses. On a social media platform, Zelensky acknowledged the upcoming peace discussions and indicated that preparations had been made by his military Cabinet in anticipation of the meeting with the American delegation.
These anticipated talks in the Middle East emerge after previous ceasefire negotiations encountered obstacles, particularly after a phone call on Tuesday between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. During their conversation, Putin expressed skepticism regarding the proposed 30-day ceasefire, acknowledging its theoretical merits but questioning whether it would permit Ukraine sufficient time to strengthen its defenses.
Zelensky has voiced criticism over Putin’s reluctance during negotiations, alleging that he “effectively rejected the proposal for a full ceasefire” during his discussion with Trump and accused Putin of attempting to extend the conflict further. The ceasefire discussions commencing this weekend are deemed critical for Ukraine, particularly as its military struggles to retain territory against advancing Russian forces. Furthermore, these talks will serve as a measure of Russia’s genuine interest in concluding the ongoing hostilities.
In summary, the upcoming ceasefire talks between the United States and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia represent a significant effort towards resolving the three-year-long Russia-Ukraine conflict. Following a challenging week in negotiations, Zelensky’s participation underscores the urgency of the discussions. The outcome of these meetings may reveal the extent of Russia’s willingness to cease hostilities as Ukraine faces considerable military challenges.
Original Source: www.washingtonexaminer.com
