USA and Ukraine brace for pivotal Saudi negotiations
On Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Moscow announced that no talks between the USA and Russia are planned for this week in Saudi Arabia. However, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha are scheduled to meet on Tuesday at 3:00 PM Eastern Time.
Many reports from Russian media or government representatives are elements of propaganda. Such reports are part of the information war conducted by the Russian Federation.
Talks with Russia were not officially announced in Washington, but the Russian state agency TASS reported that, according to CNN, American representatives were rumoured to have separate discussions with the Russian delegation about the war in Ukraine.
Difficult talks in Saudi Arabia
The Economist reported that "On March 11th America and Ukrainian delegations are due to meet in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The American side says the goal is to create "a framework for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire."
In the meantime, Ukraine fears that negotiations may become a form of blackmail, a delay tactic, or an attempt by Donald Trump to force concessions beneficial to Russia.
Key role of Witkoff
The American delegation will be headed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. However, Steve Witkoff—a trusted associate of Trump and his unofficial envoy—is expected to play a key role in the talks.
The Ukrainian side will be represented by Chief of the President's Office Andriy Yermak, Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, and military advisor Pavlo Palisa.
