Ukraine, US Engage in High-Stakes Talks in Saudi Arabia

Ukrainian and U.S. officials convened in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to discuss strategies for ending the war with Russia amid heightened tensions following Ukraine's largest drone attack on Moscow. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed hope for pragmatic relations with the U.S. and proposed a truce as part of the negotiations. Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian delegation, emphasized the need for U.S. security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression and called for a constructive dialogue. The meetings are under close scrutiny from European allies, especially given the U.S.'s recent pause in military support to Ukraine. Key issues on the agenda include potential concessions from Ukraine and the resumption of U.S. military aid. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested that territorial concessions may be necessary for peace negotiations.