ANKARA: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced he would delay his trip to Saudi Arabia until March 10. The delay follows Ukraine’s exclusion from a recent US-Russia discussion held in Riyadh on Tuesday. Zelensky had planned to visit Saudi Arabia later this week, but his decision to postpone stemmed from the surprise exclusion. He expressed surprise at not being invited to the Russian-American meeting in Saudi Arabia.
Zelensky’s Surprise
During a press conference in Turkey’s capital, Ankara, Zelensky emphasized his shock at the absence of Ukraine from the talks. “It was a surprise for us,” he commented. He added, “I think it was a surprise for many people.” The Ukrainian leader felt that his nation should have been part of the discussions. According to Zelensky, it was essential for Ukraine to be included in conversations about the war’s end.
Fair Negotiations
Zelensky explained that while he desires an end to the war, it must be on fair terms. He emphasized Ukraine’s need to be involved in any decision-making processes related to the conflict. The exclusion from talks made him hesitant to proceed with his Saudi visit. “I don’t want any coincidences,” he noted, making it clear that fairness and transparency were his priorities.
Transparency Concerns
By not being part of these critical discussions, Ukraine risks having decisions made about its future without its input. Zelensky’s refusal to go to Saudi Arabia demonstrates his dissatisfaction with how the negotiations unfolded. The Ukrainian leader stressed that any agreements about the war’s resolution must include Ukrainian representation.
“We want peace, but it must be on our terms,” Zelensky declared. He expressed concern over being sidelined, noting that it’s crucial for Ukraine to be involved. Decisions that affect Ukraine’s sovereignty cannot be made without its involvement, he stated firmly.
US-Russia Discussions
The US and Russia held their meeting in Riyadh on Tuesday, discussing critical issues related to the ongoing conflict. Ukraine was notably excluded from the table, which created tension in Kyiv. Zelensky viewed the omission as a significant issue and a move that could undermine Ukraine’s role in the war’s outcome.
The talks between the US and Russia took place in Saudi Arabia, but Ukraine’s absence was a point of contention. Zelensky believed that without Ukraine, no agreement could be truly fair. “You cannot make decisions without Ukraine,” he insisted, asserting his country’s right to be part of any diplomatic efforts concerning the war.
Expectations for US Delegation
While Zelensky postponed his Saudi visit, he shared his expectations for an upcoming US delegation to visit Kyiv. He mentioned that Keith Kellogg, the former US National Security Advisor under President Trump, would visit Ukraine soon. Kellogg had not been part of the US delegation in Riyadh, but his scheduled visit to Kyiv provided hope for further diplomatic engagement.
“I am expecting Keith Kellogg to come to Ukraine on Thursday,” Zelensky revealed. His words indicated that Kyiv was anticipating continued dialogue with the United States. Zelensky’s comments suggested that his government was seeking assurances and a stronger voice in peace negotiations moving forward.
Zelensky’s Leadership
Zelensky has been vocal about Ukraine’s desire for a resolution to the conflict, but he insists it must be just. He has repeatedly called for fair negotiations that do not undermine Ukraine’s interests. His leadership in the face of exclusion from key talks reflects his commitment to protecting Ukraine’s sovereignty and ensuring it plays a central role in any peace process.
The Ukrainian president’s decision to delay his trip to Saudi Arabia underscores his dissatisfaction with the current diplomatic landscape. By postponing, Zelensky shows that Ukraine will not accept decisions made behind its back. The message to the international community is clear: Ukraine will not compromise its role in determining the future of the war.
Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts
Ukraine continues to push for international recognition of its role in the peace process. Despite setbacks, Zelensky has made it clear that Ukraine will remain active in diplomatic efforts. He expects international support to uphold Ukraine’s position as an equal party in negotiations.
Zelensky’s delay in traveling to Saudi Arabia highlights the broader issues of exclusion that Ukraine faces in global talks.
