Senior Trump administration officials will meet with Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential peace plan, following previous diplomatic tensions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and others will engage in negotiations amidst ongoing speculation about American pressure tactics and potential sanctions on Russia.
This week, senior officials from the Trump administration are set to hold separate meetings with delegations from Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia, as reported by CNN on March 9. President Trump highlighted the significance of these discussions, stating, “Big meetings coming up, as you know, in Saudi Arabia. That’s going to include Russia, but Ukraine, we’ll see if we can get something done,” while aboard Air Force One.
These negotiations are a continuation from prior meetings, including a US-Russian conference on February 18, where a three-step peace plan was proposed, incorporating a ceasefire, subsequent elections in Ukraine, and a final agreement. Additionally, the upcoming talks follow a previous Oval Office meeting with Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during which tensions emerged regarding security assurances and prior arrangements with Russia.
In an effort to mend relations, US and Ukrainian officials have been actively working to address diplomatic strains since that meeting. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is reported to be among the US officials attending the discussions with Ukrainian leaders in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Moreover, the Ukrainian delegation is expected to engage with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh before the US-Ukraine talks commence.
US Special Envoy Keith Kellogg characterized American pressure on Ukraine as a necessity to drive negotiations forward. He likened it to “something like hitting a mule with a board on the nose – you got their attention,” implying that the withholding of military aid is intended to prompt Ukraine toward a resolution. Trump has also suggested potential measures against Russia, alluding to possible significant banking sanctions and tariffs until a ceasefire and final peace agreement can be established.
Furthermore, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova indicated that there would not be any US-Russia meetings occurring this week, leaving the outcomes of the contingent dialogues uncertain.
The forthcoming meetings involving Trump administration officials, Russian, and Ukrainian delegations in Saudi Arabia aim to de-escalate ongoing tensions. Previous discussions, including a proposed peace plan and strained diplomatic relations, set the stage for these crucial negotiations. As both parties enter talks amidst significant pressure, the outcomes may shape future relationships and conflict resolution in the region.
Original Source: euromaidanpress.com
