The US-Ukraine meeting in Jeddah follows a fallout between Zelenskyy and Trump over military support issues. Saudi Arabia’s role as a diplomatic mediator is highlighted, with the objective of establishing lasting peace in Ukraine. Key delegations from both nations are attending, showcasing efforts to navigate the complexities of the ongoing conflict.
The recent high-stakes US-Ukraine meeting held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, follows a contentious exchange between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former President Donald Trump. This confrontation occurred during a February 28 meeting, where Trump accused Zelenskyy of “gambling with World War III,” ultimately disrupting crucial negotiations on an agreement regarding rare earth minerals essential for US military support to Ukraine.
Jeddah was chosen as the venue for the talks by Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry but the reasons behind opting for this port city over Riyadh, the capital, remain unclear. The Ministry stated its commitment to achieving “a lasting peace to end the Ukrainian crisis,” highlighting that Saudi Arabia has hosted numerous meetings on this issue over the past three years.
Attending the talks, Zelenskyy is expected to be accompanied by key figures such as his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. The US delegation will be led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who has been in communication with Sybiha to prepare for the discussions. A statement from the US State Department reiterated Trump’s goal of hastening the end of the war and establishing a sustainable peace agreement.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has actively positioned Saudi Arabia as a diplomatic hub, managing relations with various nations, including recent engagements with Iran and hosting Zelenskyy at the Arab League summit. The kingdom’s controlled political climate allows for negotiations with relative secrecy, making it an ideal location for sensitive discussions regarding the conflict in Ukraine.
In summary, the US-Ukraine talks in Jeddah signify a critical diplomatic effort led by Saudi Arabia amid a backdrop of strained US-Ukrainian relations. The presence of key leaders and strategic discussions aim to facilitate a resolution to ongoing tensions, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s emerging role as a broker of peace. These developments reflect broader geopolitical dynamics and the potential shift in alliances influencing the Ukrainian crisis.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
