Ukraine and USA eye strategic alliance in Saudi Arabia talks

Russia is not expected to participate in the talks scheduled for next Monday in Saudi Arabia. "The agenda includes Ukraine-U.S. bilateral relations, our strategic partnership, and its further development. And, of course, at the center of the discussion is the path to peace," stated Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhiy Tykhyi.

Tykhyi emphasised that Ukraine has not received any information about Russia's involvement in the meeting. "We have not received such information. As far as we know, the negotiations in Saudi Arabia are meant to be bilateral Ukraine-U.S. consultations, a meeting, and a dialogue," he added.

Ukraine is ready to formalize an agreement with the United States regarding mineral resources. According to the spokesperson, the deal is favorable for both sides, and Ukraine is keen to proceed with its signing.

The spokesperson also referred to the proposal by Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni concerning the extension of NATO's Article 5 to Ukraine.

Tykhyi expressed gratitude for the statement, seeing it as a valuable contribution to discussions on securing long-term guarantees and upholding overall security and peace in Ukraine. In the meantime, Ukraine is collaborating with its Italian partners to gather further details regarding the proposal.