Ukraine conducted a significant drone attack on Russia just before U.S. and Ukrainian negotiations in Saudi Arabia aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. Russian officials reported substantial drone interceptions and casualties, while U.S. representatives, led by Secretary of State Rubio, indicated they would listen to Ukraine’s proposals without preset conditions. Key issues for Ukraine include military aid and ceasefire terms amid ongoing tensions with Russia.
Ukraine initiated a large-scale drone assault on Russia shortly before critical negotiations with the United States were set to commence in Saudi Arabia. Russia’s Defense Ministry reported intercepting 337 Ukrainian drones, resulting in two fatalities and 18 injuries across ten Russian regions. Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, declared this attack as the most significant against the city since the conflict began.
U.S. and Ukrainian officials convened in Jeddah on Tuesday, with notable attendees including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Middle East Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. This discussion aims to mend the partnership with the Trump administration following disagreements during President Zelenskyy’s White House visit on February 28 concerning a rare earth mineral agreement.
Ukraine is seeking to persuade the U.S. to lift the suspension on military aid and intelligence sharing that followed these tensions. Ukrainian representatives plan to propose a ceasefire regarding the Black Sea to enhance shipping safety, along with conditions for long-range missile strikes affecting civilians in Ukraine and the release of prisoners.
Rubio stated that the U.S. delegation would refrain from presenting definitive proposals to conclude the ongoing conflict. “I’m not going to set any conditions on what they have to or need to do,” Rubio commented while traveling to Jeddah. He emphasized the importance of understanding Ukraine’s position in comparison to Russian demands.
Notably, President Zelenskyy will not engage directly in the U.S. talks. Former President Trump expressed his desire for peace, stating that Ukraine has not demonstrated sufficient commitment to this goal. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has remained firm, suggesting it would cease hostilities only if Ukraine abandons its NATO aspirations and recognizes the annexed territories as part of Russia, following significant territorial gains since the war’s outbreak.
In summary, Ukraine’s drone attack on Russia coincides with pivotal U.S.-Ukrainian talks in Saudi Arabia, highlighting escalating tensions and the urgent need for resolution. The U.S. delegation focuses on understanding Ukraine’s stance without imposing conditions, while Ukraine seeks to secure necessary military aid. Trump’s comments underscore the complexities of the diplomatic landscape, with Russia maintaining its position regarding NATO and territorial claims.
Original Source: news3lv.com
