Witkoff Optimistic About Ukraine Peace Talks, Downplays Putin’s European Ambitions

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff expresses optimism ahead of Saudi negotiations on Ukraine, stating Putin appears to seek peace. He anticipates a ceasefire in the Black Sea could lead to overall cessation of hostilities and addresses EU concerns regarding Russia’s intentions. Upcoming meetings will focus on stopping violence and facilitating dialogue.

On Sunday, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism regarding the upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia aimed at concluding the war in Ukraine. He asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin purportedly desires peace, reflecting a possible shift in the ongoing conflict, as conveyed by Reuters.

Witkoff anticipates visible progress during the discussions, particularly concerning a potential ceasefire in the Black Sea. He expressed confidence that such a ceasefire could pave the way for a comprehensive cessation of hostilities.

In response to European Union concerns regarding Russia’s intentions, Witkoff stated, “I just don’t see that he wants to take all of Europe. This is a much different situation than it was in World War II. In World War II, there was no NATO.” This comment underscores a perceived difference in geopolitical dynamics today.

Witkoff emphasized the urgent need to halt violence, stating, “Let’s end this thing. You can’t end things without communicating with both sides, understanding what each of them needs, and then trying to bring them together.” His comments reflect a commitment to fostering dialogue to achieve peace.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signaled that Ukrainian officials will once again meet American representatives in Saudi Arabia on March 24, at a technical team level. Witkoff’s counterpart from the US, Keith Kellogg, noted plans for American teams to facilitate indirect negotiations between Ukraine and Russia during this meeting.

However, Heorhii Tykhyi, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, clarified that Ukraine perceives the gathering as a bilateral meeting with US representatives, with no intention for Ukrainian teams to engage with Russian officials. Further details regarding the participants and structure of the talks may be found in RBC-Ukraine’s report.

In summary, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff remains optimistic about upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia, suggesting that Putin may seek peace and signaling potential progress toward a ceasefire. Despite EU apprehensions regarding Russia’s expansionist behavior, Witkoff does not foresee a desire for a European takeover akin to World War II. As discussions approach, the focus remains on mitigating violence and establishing communication pathways between the conflicting parties.

Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua