Kiev: High-level officials from the US and Ukraine are set to meet in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday to discuss the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. According to sources, the delegations from both countries may have an important discussion in Riyadh regarding a possible ceasefire with Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed hope that the meeting may lead to positive results regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This will be the first major meeting between the US and Ukraine after the dispute between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky last week.
Following the dispute with Zelensky at the White House, Donald Trump had halted military aid to Ukraine, which increased tensions between the two countries. However, this upcoming meeting in Saudi Arabia is expected to normalize the relations and open a path for a ceasefire with Russia.
Zelensky Confirmed The Meeting With US Officials
According to a BBC News report, President Zelensky has confirmed that the delegations of Ukraine and the US have begun talks, and an important meeting will take place in Saudi Arabia. Zelensky also mentioned that he would visit Saudi Arabia on Monday to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, although he will not personally attend the meeting with the US delegation.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff said that the US delegation aims to prepare a peace proposal to end the Russia-Ukraine war. Witkoff also claimed that Zelensky has written a letter to Trump apologizing to improve bilateral relations after their recent conflict.
Relations Between US-Ukraine May Improve
Steve Witkoff has expressed hope that the relations between the US and Ukraine will soon get back on track after the high-level meeting. On the other hand, Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine wants peace and is ready for any possible negotiations. However, Zelensky also blamed Russia for continuing the war and urged world leaders to increase pressure on Moscow for a ceasefire.
It is being said that the US is putting pressure on Ukraine to make some concessions, but Zelensky is demanding strong security guarantees for Ukraine before agreeing to any proposal. This clash of interests between Zelensky and Trump was also one of the main reasons for the dispute at the White House last week.
Russia Has Occupied 20% Of Ukraine's Territory
The Russia-Ukraine war, which began in February 2022, has already caused severe damage to Ukraine. According to reports, Russia has occupied nearly 20% of Ukraine's territory, including several important cities and regions. Ukraine has been continuously demanding international support and military assistance from the US, Europe, and NATO allies. However, Donald Trump's decision to halt military aid after his dispute with Zelensky created a major setback for Ukraine.
Russia And US Also Held Meeting In Saudi Arabia Earlier
Interestingly, last month, Saudi Arabia hosted a similar meeting between top officials of Russia and the US in Riyadh to discuss a possible ceasefire. However, Ukrainian and European officials were not invited to that meeting, which caused displeasure among Ukraine and European countries. After facing criticism, Saudi Arabia now decided to host a meeting between Ukraine and US officials to ensure that Ukraine's voice is heard.
Zelensky Wants A Permanent Ceasefire With Russia
According to sources, Zelensky's main objective in the meeting will be to seek a permanent ceasefire with Russia while ensuring strong security guarantees for Ukraine. However, Trump's delegation may push Ukraine for some compromises to achieve peace with Russia. It remains to be seen what outcome will emerge from the US-Ukraine meeting in Saudi Arabia.
The world is closely watching the Riyadh meeting, as it could be a major step toward ending the Russia-Ukraine war or further escalating the conflict.
