Ukrainian Delegation Visits Saudi Arabia Amidst Speculation of US-Russia Talks

A Ukrainian delegation is in Saudi Arabia to arrange a potential visit by President Zelenskiy amidst speculation about US-Russia peace talks. Ukrainian officials reaffirm that they will not engage in direct negotiations with Russia without a plan for peace, and stress Ukraine’s inclusion in any discussions. Meanwhile, high-level US meetings are scheduled in Saudi Arabia to facilitate negotiations on the war.

A Ukrainian delegation has arrived in Saudi Arabia to prepare for a potential visit by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, amidst heightened speculation regarding prospective US-Russia negotiations in the kingdom aimed at concluding the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko indicated that the focus of the Ukrainian delegation is to enhance economic ties while preparing to finalize significant economic agreements in the region.

Svyrydenko did not specify the timing of Zelenskiy’s visit or potential meetings; furthermore, Andriy Yermak, an advisor to Zelenskiy, asserted that direct discussions between Ukrainian and Russian representatives are not expected to occur shortly. He emphasized that a structured plan for peace must be established before any such meetings are arranged.

In addition, Mykhailo Podolyak, another adviser to Zelenskiy, explicitly rejected Ukraine’s involvement in the anticipated US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, asserting, “There is nothing on the negotiating table that would be worth discussing.” His remarks coincided with an announcement by Steve Witkoff, appointed by former President Trump, regarding imminent high-level discussions in Saudi Arabia concerning a negotiated resolution to the war.

Witkoff and national security adviser Mike Waltz are set to conduct meetings in Saudi Arabia under the President’s direction to foster meaningful progress in the Russia-Ukraine negotiations. Following a recent conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, a commitment to initiate negotiations on resolving the conflict was established.

The developments surrounding Trump’s announcement have led to a significant shift in US diplomatic policy, sparking discussions on potential outcomes for Ukraine. Notably, Zelenskiy has articulated that Ukraine must be included in any negotiations regarding its future. Meanwhile, European leaders have also insisted on their involvement in the discussions. Putin’s isolation from the West continues, following the ICC’s issuance of an arrest warrant against him.

The recent arrival of a Ukrainian delegation in Saudi Arabia to prepare for President Zelenskiy’s possible visit underscores the heightened diplomatic activity surrounding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. With US and Russian representatives set to meet for negotiations, both Ukrainian officials and their advisors have expressed their concerns and conditions, emphasizing the necessity for Ukraine’s inclusion in any discussions that seek to bring about peace. The evolving situation indicates a nuanced landscape of international diplomacy focused on resolving the crisis.

Original Source: www.lismorecitynews.com.au