US and Ukrainian Officials Begin Talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
U.S. officials, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Ukrainian officials, headed by Andriy Yermak, Chief of Staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, have initiated discussions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Yermak reported on Tuesday that the talks with the U.S. delegation in the port city of Jeddah began on a positive note.
In a statement on social media, Yermak, who is attending the highest-level meeting with U.S. officials, said, "The meeting with the U.S. team started very constructively, and we are continuing our work." He emphasized Ukraine’s desire for peace and its readiness to negotiate to end the ongoing conflict. "We are ready to do everything to achieve peace," Yermak told reporters.
These U.S.-Ukraine peace talks follow a tense meeting last month at the White House, where U.S. President Donald Trump and Zelensky clashed, leading to a historic low in bilateral relations. During that meeting, Trump raised his voice at Zelensky, urging him to be more appreciative of U.S. aid to Ukraine in its fight against Russia. U.S. Vice President JD Vance also criticized Zelensky, labeling him "disrespectful."
Zelensky hopes the current talks in Jeddah will restore "pragmatic" relations with the U.S. after the breakdown of last month’s meeting with Trump. The discussions are expected to address Trump’s proposed deal, which has been central to U.S. support and military aid to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion three years ago.
Amid the diplomatic efforts, Ukraine launched its largest drone attack on Russia overnight, deploying 91 drones. The attack resulted in one casualty, the temporary closure of airports, and the diversion of dozens of flights.
Rubio commented on the negotiations, stating, "We have to understand the Ukrainian position and have a general idea of what concessions they’d be willing to make. You’re not going to get a ceasefire and an end to this war unless both sides make concessions."
The talks in Jeddah aim to pave the way for a resolution to the conflict and strengthen the strategic partnership between the U.S. and Ukraine.
Stay updated with the latest news by visiting our trusted sources: ZTC News and ZNews Today. Explore more stories and stay informed!