Rubio Highlights Promise in Ukraine’s Partial Ceasefire Plan Ahead of Key Talks in Saudi Arabia

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism regarding Ukraine’s proposal for a partial ceasefire to end the ongoing conflict with Russia, as he prepared for crucial talks with Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

Rubio, who arrived in Jeddah on Monday, acknowledged the potential of Ukraine’s plan for a temporary aerial and naval truce. He noted that while the proposal alone may not be sufficient to resolve the conflict, it could serve as an essential step towards peace.

"It's the kind of concession that is necessary to move towards ending the conflict," Rubio stated. "The talks tomorrow will be key in determining the feasibility of this approach."

Ukrainian officials, led by President Volodymyr Zelensky, have been pressing for a pause in hostilities, which would include a temporary ceasefire to facilitate further diplomatic negotiations. However, Russia has rejected the idea of a ceasefire, viewing it as a tactic to buy time and prevent further military losses for Ukraine.

Ahead of the talks, Rubio emphasized the need for clarity regarding Ukraine’s intentions for a peace deal. He also pointed out that both sides, the US and Ukraine, must be prepared to make difficult decisions to bring the war to a close. "We want to listen to how far Ukraine is willing to go and compare it to Russia's position," he remarked.

The US delegation, which includes National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, is focused on laying the groundwork for diplomatic negotiations that could lead to a resolution. While Zelensky is in Saudi Arabia for separate meetings with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, he is not expected to participate directly in the talks with the US delegation.

Rubio also spoke about the suspension of US military aid to Ukraine, which followed a breakdown in communication between Ukraine and the US after a contentious White House meeting last month. "We hope that the pause in aid can be resolved if Ukraine demonstrates a clear commitment to peace," Rubio stated. "The president will use all tools available to encourage both sides to engage in dialogue."

In the lead-up to the talks, the focus will be on finding common ground for a ceasefire that can open the door for long-term peace negotiations. The ongoing conflict, which began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, has seen extensive territorial changes, with Russia currently holding significant portions of Ukrainian land, including Crimea.

The discussions in Jeddah will also address broader security concerns and territorial issues as Ukraine seeks to secure international support for its sovereignty. As the talks continue, the world watches closely, hopeful that a diplomatic solution to the war may be within reach.