Rubio Acknowledges Potential in Ukraine’s Ceasefire Plan Ahead of Talks in Saudi Arabia

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expresses optimism for Ukraine’s partial ceasefire proposal, indicating it may be essential to conclude the conflict with Russia. Talks scheduled in Saudi Arabia will involve US and Ukrainian officials, with an emphasis on negotiations and potential compromises from both sides. Trump’s pressure on Ukraine to agree to a ceasefire continues as military aid pauses loom.

In anticipation of talks in Saudi Arabia, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism regarding Ukraine’s proposal for a partial ceasefire to conclude the ongoing war with Russia. He indicated that such concessions would be necessary to potentially bring an end to the conflict, although he acknowledged that this might not be sufficient on its own.

During the upcoming negotiations, Ukraine plans to advocate for a truce encompassing aerial and naval operations against Russia, as confirmed by a Ukrainian official. However, Russia has previously dismissed the prospect of a temporary ceasefire, labeling it as a tactic to delay military collapse in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Saudi Arabia to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman but will not officially participate in the US-Ukraine talks. The Ukrainian delegation will include high-level officials such as Andriy Yermak, along with national security and defense ministers. Rubio will lead the US delegation alongside National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.

Rubio emphasized the importance of clarifying Ukraine’s peace intentions, stating that both sides must undertake difficult negotiations to achieve an agreement. He refrained from imposing conditions on Ukraine, instead expressing a willingness to listen and gauge how far both parties might compromise. He reiterated that a military resolution is not feasible, and the conflict must be settled through diplomatic engagement.

As these discussions unfold, former President Donald Trump is amplifying pressure on Zelensky to reach a ceasefire with Russia, despite lacking guarantees of US security. This event marks the first official meeting following tensions after Zelensky’s previous White House visit.

Rubio indicated that delays in US military aid to Ukraine were a result of perceived hesitancy in the peace process, but he hoped for a resolution during negotiations. The US administration believes that Ukraine’s commitment to a peace process could influence its stance on aid.

Prior to the talks, Witkoff expressed anticipation for meaningful progress, noting discussions would also encompass security protocols and territorial matters. He confirmed that the US has consistently shared defensive intelligence with Ukraine, while Trump mentioned he was close to reinstating intelligence sharing suspensions for Ukraine.

In light of the conflict that began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the situation remains dire, with Russia occupying significant Ukrainian territories, including Crimea, annexed in 2014.

In summary, the upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia present a crucial opportunity for Ukraine and the United States to explore a potential ceasefire with Russia. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s supportive comments reflect a willingness to engage in dialogue, while the emphasis on the necessity for both sides to compromise underscores the pressing need for a diplomatic resolution. As discussions approach, the outcomes could significantly influence US aid and Ukraine’s military strategy moving forward.

Original Source: www.bbc.com