Zelenskyy Visits Saudi Arabia for Crucial Peace Talks with US Officials

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy Visits Saudi Arabia for Peace Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy traveled to Saudi Arabia for crucial talks with US officials regarding the ongoing war with Russia. While he was scheduled to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, he did not remain in the kingdom for the broader discussions with the Trump administration.

This summit in Jeddah followed a heated exchange between Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, highlighting the strained relationship between Kyiv and Washington. Zelenskyy described the meeting as "regrettable," and the US subsequently paused weapons shipments and intelligence support to Ukraine.

Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a mediator in the conflict, hosting meetings between US and Russian officials last month. Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine's desire for peace, stating that Russia's aggression was the sole reason for the war's continuation.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also participated in the talks. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff expressed optimism about achieving substantial progress. He emphasized the need to bridge the gap between the two sides, noting positive signals from Zelenskyy, his officials, and European leaders.

Witkoff clarified that the US had not cut off intelligence support for Ukraine's defensive needs. He also expressed hope for the signing of a critical minerals deal between the US and Ukraine, which could provide the US access to Ukraine's reserves and establish a joint fund for sales proceeds.

Following Zelenskyy's arrival, Downing Street confirmed a conversation between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Trump regarding the summit. Starmer reiterated the UK's commitment to a lasting peace and expressed hope for a positive outcome that would allow the resumption of US aid and intelligence sharing.

The Kremlin, responsible for the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, placed the onus on Ukraine to demonstrate its willingness to negotiate. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized the need for Ukraine to show a genuine desire for peace.

Despite Russia's control over significant Ukrainian territory and rejection of ceasefire calls, Witkoff remained optimistic about the prospects for peace. He highlighted the importance of discussing security protocols, territorial issues, and the utility plan, emphasizing the need for transparency and compromise to facilitate a meaningful dialogue.