Ukraine is preparing for President Zelensky’s visit to Saudi Arabia for economic agreements amid U.S. officials’ discussions with Russian representatives, in which Ukraine will not take part. Zelensky confirms he will not meet with Russian or American delegates during this visit, citing a lack of viable negotiations with Russia.
Delegations from Saudi Arabia and Ukraine convened on February 16 to explore opportunities for increased investment and bilateral cooperation in anticipation of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s impending visit. This development occurs simultaneously with senior U.S. officials planning to engage with unspecified Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia, while Ukraine will not partake in these discussions.
The Ukrainian delegation, in collaboration with local authorities, is preparing for President Zelensky’s visit, during which he is expected to sign economic agreements with various countries across the region, as noted by First Deputy Prime Minister and Economic Minister Yulia Svyrydenko. She expressed optimism regarding heightened investment potential from Middle Eastern nations, particularly in infrastructure, energy, innovation, and agribusiness, especially in fertilizer production where Saudi Arabia holds considerable expertise.
Prior to the announcement made by Svyrydenko, President Zelensky mentioned at the Munich Security Conference his intentions to officially visit Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey; however, he clarified that he would not engage in meetings with any Russian or U.S. delegations during these visits. He stated, “I will not meet with Russians, but then I will not meet with Americans there.”
In the coming days, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff are slated to hold discussions with Russian officials, whose identities remain undisclosed. Rubio described these discussions as preliminary, emphasizing that substantive negotiations to resolve the conflict will necessitate the involvement of Ukraine and European entities.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently indicated plans to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia to facilitate a ceasefire agreement between Kyiv and Moscow. However, Ukrainian officials have refuted reports of their participation in the talks between U.S. and Russian delegates in Riyadh. Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to President Zelensky, remarked, “Russia is not ready for negotiations.”
In summary, delegations from Ukraine and Saudi Arabia are preparing for President Zelensky’s official visit aimed at fostering economic agreements, amidst ongoing U.S. discussions with Russia. Zelensky has expressed his intention to avoid meetings with Russian or American delegations during his trip. Furthermore, Ukrainian officials assert that there is currently no viable negotiating framework with Russia, emphasizing an impasse in dialogue.
Original Source: kyivindependent.com
