Prospects for Peace Talks on Russia-Ukraine Conflict Remain Uncertain
Top U.S. officials are set to meet with Russian diplomats in Saudi Arabia to discuss the ongoing Ukraine war. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed skepticism regarding immediate peace negotiations initiated by Trump and Putin. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy insists on Ukraine’s involvement in any discussions and emphasizes the necessity of U.S. military support to confront Russia effectively. The situation remains precarious as Russia currently controls a significant portion of Ukrainian territory.
On Sunday, top U.S. officials traveled to Saudi Arabia to engage in discussions with Russian diplomats regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed skepticism about achieving an immediate resolution. Following a recent call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which initiated peace negotiations, Rubio noted that achieving peace is a complex process that requires more than a single meeting.
Rubio remarked, “We’ll see in the coming days and weeks if Vladimir Putin is interested in negotiating an end to the war in Ukraine in a way that is sustainable and fair.” Meanwhile, Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, and national security adviser Mike Waltz were set to meet with a Ukrainian delegation in Riyadh, where discussions about the peace process would occur. Rubio indicated uncertainty regarding the composition of the Russian delegation, stating, “Nothing’s been finalized yet.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed strong opposition to any agreements made without Ukraine’s involvement, stating, “I will never accept any decisions between the United States and Russia about Ukraine. Never. The war in Ukraine is against us, and it is our human losses.” He conveyed concerns to Trump regarding Putin’s commitment to peace, labeling him as insincere in negotiations.
Zelenskyy cautioned that the continued military support from the United States is crucial for Ukraine’s ability to confront Russia effectively, stressing that without it, survival chances would diminish significantly. “And of course, in all the difficult situations, you have a chance. But we will have low chance — low chance to survive without support of the United States,” he stated. Presently, Russia occupies approximately 20% of Ukraine’s recognized territory, including Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine.
In summary, while U.S. officials engage in peace discussions with Russia, the potential for a swift resolution to the conflict in Ukraine remains uncertain. Secretary Rubio underscores that meaningful peace negotiations involve ongoing dialogue, not simply one meeting. Zelenskyy vehemently opposes any agreements made without Ukraine’s input, emphasizing the importance of U.S. military support in continuing the fight against Russian aggression. Overall, the situation continues to be complex and fluid, warranting close observation.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
