Zelensky Accuses Russia of Stalling Ahead of U.S. Peace Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia with U.S. officials, aimed at resolving the conflict with Russia. The discussions will focus on cease-fire terms involving energy and infrastructure. Zelensky criticized Russia’s preconditions and lamented Ukraine’s exclusion from NATO, emphasizing the need for military support. Russia confirmed its participation in separate negotiations, while Zelensky ruled out U.S. ownership of Ukrainian power plants and expressed openness to modernization discussions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukrainian and U.S. officials are slated to meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss strategies for ending the ongoing conflict with Russia. The planned talks will involve technical teams from both parties focusing on establishing an energy and infrastructure cease-fire. Zelensky expressed hope for the meeting, suggesting it may lead to U.S. diplomatic efforts to bridge any outstanding issues with Moscow.

In the lead-up to these discussions, President Zelensky criticized the preconditions set forth by Russia, which include an end to all U.S. military assistance to Ukraine and a prohibition on Ukraine’s military mobilization. He emphasized that such demands serve only to prolong the conflict, urging Russia to cease its insistence on unreasonable terms.

Zelensky expressed disappointment over NATO’s handling of Ukraine’s membership aspirations, stating, “Unfortunately, we are not being taken into NATO… I believe that it is a great gift that they are removing this topic from the negotiations. I just think it’s not right.” He highlighted the need for the U.S. to recognize Ukraine’s desire to be part of NATO, a stance that he believes would alleviate numerous issues.

Russia has confirmed its participation in separate negotiations with the United States, led by an expert group including prominent officials. These discussions are expected to address the potential revival of the 2022 Black Sea initiative, which previously allowed free passage for Russian fertilizer exports and Ukrainian grain exports. However, Russia remains firm on its positions regarding military assistance to Ukraine and rejects the EU’s involvement due to what it perceives as aggressive rhetoric.

Regarding the ownership of Ukraine’s energy assets, Zelensky clarified that the United States taking control of Ukrainian power plants, such as the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station, is not acceptable. He stated, “If it does not belong to Ukraine, it won’t work for anyone. It would be illegal.” Zelensky noted that while Kyiv is open to U.S. efforts aimed at modernization of the power station, discussions on ownership were not a part of current talks.

The upcoming meeting in Saudi Arabia represents a crucial step in the pursuit of peace between Ukraine and Russia, as articulated by President Zelensky. The discussions will focus on military assistance and the crucial issue of energy infrastructure. Zelensky’s firm stance against Russian preconditions and insistence on NATO involvement underscores Ukraine’s desire for strong international support amid ongoing challenges. Overall, the dialogue between the involved parties aims to pave the way for a hopeful resolution to the conflict.

Original Source: www.upi.com