Zelensky Critiques Russian Pre-Conditions Ahead of U.S.-Ukraine Talks

Ukrainian and U.S. officials will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss a cease-fire and energy infrastructure issues amid the ongoing conflict with Russia, according to President Zelensky. He criticized Russia’s preconditions for discussions, including demands for an end to U.S. military assistance to Ukraine, while expressing frustration over NATO membership barriers. Meanwhile, Russia is set to participate in separate talks with the U.S., focusing on previous agreements concerning grain and fertilizer exports.

On March 21, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukrainian and U.S. officials would convene in Saudi Arabia to discuss measures aimed at terminating the ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelensky noted that technical teams from both sides would initiate talks focused on establishing a cease-fire concerning energy and infrastructure. Following these discussions, he anticipates a U.S. diplomatic initiative to resolve differences with Moscow.

During a press conference in Oslo alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Store, Zelensky indicated Ukraine would propose a list of civilian infrastructure sites to protect them from potential attacks, emphasizing the need for the parties involved to reach a mutual understanding. He criticized Russia’s assertions that the U.S. must cease military aid to Ukraine and restrict Ukraine’s military mobilization, asserting that such demands only serve to extend the conflict unnecessarily.

Zelensky expressed frustration that Russia has successfully removed Ukraine’s NATO membership from negotiations, stating, “Unfortunately, we are not being taken into NATO. We really want to join… the United States does not support Ukraine in NATO.” He conveyed his conviction that conceding this issue to Russia was inappropriate, as it grants Russia an unjust advantage in negotiations.

Meanwhile, Russia confirmed its participation in separate discussions with the U.S. in Riyadh, with a delegation led by Russian Senator Grigory Karasin. The focus of these talks, according to Sergei Kislyak of the Federation Council, will involve potential resumption of the Black Sea Initiative, which had previously facilitated the passage of grain and fertilizer exports. Kislyak affirmed that Russia aimed to maintain its stance that the EU’s aggressive rhetoric excluded it from negotiations and insisted on an end to U.S. military support for Ukraine.

Zelensky also addressed the issue of U.S. control over Ukraine’s nuclear facilities, particularly the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station, labeling it a property belonging to the Ukrainian people and rejecting any concerns of abandonment. He stated, “If it does not belong to Ukraine, it won’t work for anyone. It would be illegal,” highlighting the severe challenges surrounding the facility after its capture by Russia.

The President expressed willingness for U.S. involvement in modernizing the power station, but firmly maintained that issues of property ownership were non-negotiable. Furthermore, he refuted media speculation about U.S. control of the energy sector, clarifying that discussions focused on preserving Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, which is primarily state-owned, and the integration of the country’s power generation into Europe’s energy grid, providing significant security for Ukraine’s energy needs.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s remarks highlight significant issues regarding the ongoing conflict with Russia, emphasizing Ukraine’s aspirations for NATO membership, the challenges of cease-fire negotiations, and the complexities surrounding key infrastructure. Zelensky’s criticisms of Russia’s demands reflect Ukraine’s commitment to maintaining its military capabilities while seeking U.S. support. Balancing these relations remains crucial as discussions progress regarding both diplomatic efforts and energy security.

Original Source: www.upi.com