Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a military cabinet meeting in Kharkiv on Sunday. The discussions focused on the frontline situation and preparations for an upcoming meeting with US officials in Saudi Arabia, according to The Kyiv Independent.
During the meeting, Zelensky received briefings from top military leaders. These included Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi, Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, and Chief of the General Staff Andrii Hnatov. Andriy Yermak, the Head of the President’s Office, and his deputy, Pavlo Palisa, also attended.
Zelensky stated that key military developments were reviewed. Discussions covered the situation in Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, Kharkiv, and Sumy. The ongoing operation in the Kursk region was also assessed.
The meeting also focused on diplomatic efforts. Zelensky said Ukraine was preparing for talks with the US delegation in Saudi Arabia on 24 March. The discussions aim to advance efforts for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Also read: How Zelensky rebuilt ties with Trump to turn tables on Putin
Recent diplomatic efforts have gained momentum. On 18 March, US President Joe Biden spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the war. A partial ceasefire on strikes against energy infrastructure was reportedly agreed. The next day, Zelensky and Biden held talks to discuss the outcome. Reports indicate that Ukraine agreed to halt attacks on Russian energy facilities.
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan confirmed that discussions between Russian and American delegations will take place in Riyadh on 24 March. Zelensky said Ukrainian and American teams are committed to working towards peace. He emphasised the need for swift action and close coordination.
Technical aspects of the partial ceasefire are still being worked out. In a press conference in Helsinki on 20 March, Zelensky outlined plans to document critical sites that Russia must stop attacking. These include energy and civilian infrastructure. He said this list would be presented to international partners.
Further meetings will be held to discuss lasting peace and security guarantees. The Ukrainian and US delegations last met in Saudi Arabia on 11 March. During that meeting, Ukraine reportedly accepted a US proposal for a complete ceasefire, but Russia did not agree to it.
Relations between Ukraine and the US have faced challenges. Reports suggest tensions escalated during a meeting at the White House on 28 February. US military aid and intelligence-sharing were briefly paused. However, the March 11 meeting in Saudi Arabia helped reset diplomatic ties.
The Ukrainian delegation for the upcoming talks includes Andriy Yermak, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, and Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Pavlo Palisa.
Zelensky remains focused on securing international support. He stressed the importance of continued cooperation with Western allies. The upcoming discussions in Riyadh are expected to play a crucial role in shaping Ukraine’s strategy in the ongoing conflict.
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