Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is optimistic about upcoming talks between the US and Ukraine, set to take place in Saudi Arabia next week. While he will be in the country, he will not participate directly in the negotiations. Zelensky reiterated Kyiv’s commitment to securing a “fast and lasting” peace despite mounting US pressure for Ukraine to make concessions before potential peace talks with Russia.
The discussions follow heightened tensions between Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump. Last week, during a White House meeting, Trump criticized Zelensky for allegedly not doing enough to end hostilities with Russia. Following this exchange, the US administration paused military aid to Ukraine and suspended intelligence-sharing agreements. In an attempt to mend relations, Zelensky sent a letter to Trump, which Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy, described as both an “apology” and an expression of “gratitude.”
Witkoff signaled the US’s interest in keeping its alliance with Ukraine strong. “Hopefully, we get things back on track with the Ukrainians, and everything resumes,” he said. However, the suspension of US military support raises concerns about the strength of Ukraine’s defense as the war with Russia continues.
Meanwhile, Russia’s position on negotiations remains unclear. Moscow has yet to formally respond to a ceasefire proposal put forward by French President Emmanuel Macron earlier this week. The plan calls for an end to aerial and naval attacks as well as strikes on civilian infrastructure. Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a statement on Thursday, reiterated his country’s demand for a long-term peace agreement that ensures Russia’s security. He also insisted that Russia would not relinquish any territories it has annexed since 2014.
Trump has positioned himself as a potential mediator in the war, and some see the suspension of military aid as a way to push Ukraine toward US-led peace talks. However, it remains uncertain whether similar pressure is being applied to Russia. As Ukraine and its European allies watch Trump’s diplomatic moves closely, the upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia could play a key role in shaping the next phase of the conflict.
Global
Elon Musk to Remain Trump's Adviser After Leaving Government Role
Elon Musk will continue to be a "friend and an adviser" to President Trump after his official government role ends, according to Vice President JD Vance.
Trump Imposes 25% Tariff on Imported Cars After Signal Chat Leak
President Donald Trump has announced a 25% tariff on all imported cars into the United States.
U.S. Negotiates Partial Ceasefire in Saudi Arabia Amid Ukraine-Russia Tensions
U.S. negotiators began talks with Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia on Monday, aiming to establish a partial ceasefire in the ongoing conflict.
Israeli Airstrike Kills Senior Hamas Leader at Gaza Hospital
An Israeli airstrike on Nasser Hospital in Gaza killed senior Hamas leader Ismail Barhoum and one of his aides on Sunday evening, according to a Hamas official who spoke to the BBC.
South Korea Court Reinstates PM Han Duck-soo After Impeachment
South Korea's Constitutional Court has overturned the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, reinstating him as the country's acting president.
Putin Halts Energy Strikes in Ukraine After Trump Call, No Ceasefire
Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to pause attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure for 30 days after a phone call with former U.S.
Putin Supports US Ceasefire Plan but Calls for More Talks
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Thursday that Moscow agrees with U.S. proposals for a ceasefire in Ukraine but stressed that several key details still need to be worked out.
Trump Drops Plan to Double Tariffs on Canadian Metals
President Donald Trump initially planned to double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum to 50%, but he backed down after Ontario agreed to remove its surcharge on electricity sold to the United States.