High-level peace talks between Ukrainian and U.S. officials are scheduled to commence today in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, aiming to negotiate an end to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is not attending the talks; however, he met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the Gulf state on Monday. Ukraine’s delegation includes Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Presidential Office Chief Andrii Yermak, and his deputy Pavlo Pallisa.
Representing the United States are Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, known for their involvement in Gaza-Israel negotiations.
Ukraine has recently backed a proposal by French President Emmanuel Macron advocating for a partial ceasefire, focusing on halting long-range missile strikes and military activities in the Black Sea. This initiative was rejected by Russia last week. Additionally, Kyiv seeks a comprehensive prisoner exchange with Russia as an initial step toward de-escalation.
The United States is pushing for a swift and comprehensive ceasefire, followed by elections in Kyiv. Ukraine has been defending itself against a full-scale Russian invasion for over three years, with support from Western allies.
Following a contentious meeting at the Oval Office on February 28, where U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance criticized Zelensky and labeled him ungrateful, Washington paused arms deliveries to Ukraine and restricted access to critical intelligence. President Trump has been eager to secure a minerals deal with Ukraine, but Zelensky has insisted on security guarantees as a prerequisite.
