Witkoff’s Optimism on Ukraine Negotiations and Regional Implications

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is optimistic about negotiations in Saudi Arabia aimed at ending the Ukraine war, suggesting that Putin wants peace. Concerns about further Russian expansion in Europe were dismissed, emphasizing the need for communication to stop violence. Upcoming meetings between Ukrainian and U.S. officials will take place but will not involve direct talks with Russia.

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism for upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia aimed at concluding the conflict in Ukraine. He suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin appears to desire peace, stating, “I feel that he wants peace.” Witkoff anticipates progress, specifically a Black Sea ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.

Witkoff noted that a ceasefire in the Black Sea could potentially lead to broader cessation of hostilities. He addressed EU concerns regarding a possible resurgence of Russian aggression, asserting, “I just don’t see that he wants to take all of Europe.” He emphasized that the current geopolitical context significantly differs from that of World War II due to the existence of NATO.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Witkoff stated that the primary objective is to stop the violence, urging, “Let’s end this thing” and stressing the necessity of communication between both sides to understand their needs.

In conjunction with Witkoff’s remarks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced forthcoming meetings between Ukrainian officials and U.S. representatives in Saudi Arabia on March 24. These discussions will occur at the technical level. While plans include U.S.-Russia interactions in Saudi Arabia, a spokesperson for Ukraine indicated that the meeting would primarily involve bilateral dialogue with U.S. representatives rather than direct engagement with Russian officials.

Further details regarding participant lists and negotiation progress can be found in RBC-Ukraine’s report on this significant diplomatic endeavor.

In summary, U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff conveys optimism about peace prospects in the Ukraine conflict, anticipating productive negotiations in Saudi Arabia. He underscores the importance of a ceasefire and direct communication to halt violence, while addressing concerns over potential Russian ambitions in Europe. Ukrainian officials are preparing for upcoming talks, focusing primarily on discussions with U.S. representatives.

Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua