KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — A delegation from Ukraine has landed in Saudi Arabia for discussions ahead of a potential visit by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a Ukrainian minister revealed on Sunday. This development occurs amidst heightened speculation surrounding planned talks between the United States and Russia in Saudi Arabia aimed at ending Moscow’s war on Ukraine. Additionally, a senior U.S. diplomat confirmed that he and another negotiator designated by former President Donald Trump were en route to Saudi Arabia.
Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, also serving as the first deputy prime minister, did not clarify whether Zelenskyy’s potential trip is connected to the previously announced U.S.-Russia discussions. In a Facebook statement, she emphasized the delegation’s objective of enhancing economic relationships, highlighting Kyiv’s preparations to finalize significant economic agreements with regional countries.
Svyrydenko did not disclose details regarding the timing of Zelenskyy’s possible visit to Saudi Arabia or the individuals he might meet there. Further information was not immediately available.
Earlier on Sunday, Andriy Yermak, a top advisor to Zelenskyy, stated that Ukrainian and Russian representatives were not expected to engage in direct talks in the near future. Via Telegram, Yermak asserted that Ukrainians would refrain from such meetings “until we craft a plan” to conclude the conflict and establish a “just peace.”
Contrary to earlier reports, Mykhailo Podolyak, another advisor to Zelenskyy, denied Ukraine’s participation in the planned U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, expressing a lack of substantial topics for discussion on the negotiating table.
Svyrydenko’s statements coincided with an announcement by Steve Witkoff, a close ally of Trump and special envoy to the Middle East, indicating that high-level discussions were forthcoming in Saudi Arabia to address a negotiated resolution to the Ukrainian conflict. Speaking on Fox News Channel’s “Sunday Morning Futures” program, Witkoff shared plans for meetings directed by the president, aiming for substantial progress in the Russia-Ukraine situation.
Witkoff did not specify the attendees or the agenda but mentioned his departure for Saudi Arabia on Sunday evening.
In the aftermath of a recent conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, it was agreed to commence immediate negotiations on halting the hostilities. Witkoff and Waltz were appointed by Trump to lead these discussions alongside U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe.
The unexpected shift in U.S. policy towards Russia prompted a positive response from Russian officials and state media. Trump’s willingness to engage with Putin for peace negotiations in Ukraine signaled a potential breakthrough for the region.
Zelenskyy has insisted on Ukraine’s inclusion in any talks concerning the country. European nations have echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for their involvement.
Putin has faced international condemnation since Russia
“Its territory should be considered as a component of any settlement reached through negotiations. “These specifics are essential, and I do not underestimate their importance,” he remarked. “However, I believe the foundation lies in establishing trust. It’s about ensuring all parties recognize that this conflict should not persist and must come to an end. That’s the primary goal the president has charged us with,” he stated.
