Ukraine is set to present a partial ceasefire proposal to the United States during high-level talks in Saudi Arabia this week, aiming to rebuild critical support after diplomatic friction under former U.S. President Donald Trump stalled negotiations to end the three-year conflict with Russia.
Delegation Seeks Saudi Mediation
Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah ahead of the talks, where they reportedly discussed Saudi Arabia's potential role in mediating prisoner exchanges and addressing Kyiv's allegations of child abductions by Moscow. A statement from Zelenskyy's office emphasized the need for 'constructive dialogue' and 'quick, effective steps' to advance peace efforts.
U.S. Aid Suspension Looms Over Talks
Tuesday's meeting marks the first major engagement since Trump publicly criticized Zelenskyy in February, accusing Ukraine of insufficient reciprocity for past U.S. military aid. Washington subsequently suspended intelligence sharing and satellite imagery access, intensifying pressure on Kyiv to negotiate. While U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism about resolving the aid freeze, he clarified that discussions would not focus on a contested agreement granting the U.S. access to Ukrainian mineral resources.
Path Forward Remains Uncertain
Zelenskyy, who will not attend the session, has delegated negotiations to a team led by his chief of staff and senior ministers. The Ukraine delegation faces dual challenges: regaining U.S. backing while navigating demands from Moscow and its allies. Analysts warn that any ceasefire must address territorial disputes and humanitarian concerns to avoid prolonged stalemate.
