Ukrainian Delegation Engages in Preparations for Potential…

A Ukrainian delegation visits Saudi Arabia to discuss potential agreements amidst US-Russia talks regarding the Ukraine conflict. Zelenskiy’s possible visit remains uncertain as aides assert Ukraine will not partake in discussions without its involvement. The evolving negotiations may herald significant diplomatic changes.

A Ukrainian delegation has arrived in Saudi Arabia to lay the groundwork for a possible visit by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, amid heightened speculation regarding impending US-Russia discussions designed to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko stated that the delegation focuses on enhancing economic relations and aims to secure key agreements with regional nations. However, she refrained from clarifying the timeline for Zelenskiy’s potential trip and his prospective meetings.

Andriy Yermak, a senior adviser to Zelenskiy, emphasized that Ukrainian representatives are not set to meet with Russian officials in the immediate future. He stated that such discussions are contingent upon formulating a strategy that leads to a “just peace”. Another adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, reiterated on national television that Ukraine would not engage in the planned US-Russia meetings, asserting that there was nothing significant to negotiate at this time.

Svyrydenko’s comments coincided with an announcement by Steve Witkoff, a special envoy to the Middle East appointed by former President Donald Trump, indicating that vital discussions on a negotiated settlement concerning the war in Ukraine would soon take place in Saudi Arabia. Witkoff, accompanied by national security adviser Mike Waltz, expressed hopes of achieving substantial progress in these negotiations. While specific details were not disclosed, Witkoff noted that he would be leaving for Saudi Arabia shortly.

Following a recent conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump conveyed that both parties had agreed to initiate negotiations aimed at concluding the conflict. He has designated Witkoff and Waltz to spearhead these discussions in collaboration with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe. Trump’s recent policy shift regarding the conflict has stirred considerable diplomatic significance, potentially creating a pivotal moment in European and Ukrainian history.

Zelenskiy affirmed his stance of rejecting any negotiations concerning Ukraine that do not involve his nation. Likewise, European leaders have insisted on being included in discussions about the conflict, with several convening in Paris to deliberate on the matter. Despite Russia’s isolation from Western nations post-invasion, Witkoff noted the necessity of fostering trust among the involved parties to expedite an end to the conflict, emphasizing that the war must not perpetuate.

In summary, a Ukrainian delegation has visited Saudi Arabia to prepare for President Zelenskiy’s potential attendance and to strengthen economic ties. Concurrently, US and Russian negotiations are anticipated, yet Ukraine has clarified that it will not engage without its participation. The evolving diplomatic landscape may signify pivotal changes for Ukraine and Europe as these discussions unfold.

Original Source: www.lismorecitynews.com.au