US envoy to visit Saudi Arabia for ceasefire discussions with Ukraine
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Steve Witkoff has expressed optimism regarding the potential upcoming round of talks in KSA, saying that Zelensky offered to sign a possible agreement.
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Steve Witkoff, White House special envoy for the Middle East, speaks with reporters at the White House, Thursday, March 6, 2025, in Washington. (AP)
US Envoy Steve Witkoff is planning a visit to Saudi Arabia for discussions with Ukrainian delegations regarding a potential ceasefire with Russia and a "framework" for a long-term agreement, AFP reported.
Speaking to reporters, Witkoff said discussions were ongoing for a meeting in Riyadh, or possibly Jeddah, highlighting, "The idea is to get down a framework for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire as well."
Witkoff also revealed that President Donald Trump was pleased with a letter sent by his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky following their public standoff at the White House last Friday.
"He [Trump] felt that Zelensky's letter was a very positive first step. There was an apology. There was an acknowledgment that the United States has done so much for the country of Ukraine, and a sense of gratitude," the US aide said.
When asked whether Ukraine would sign the deal in Saudi Arabia, Witkoff said, "I think Zelensky has offered to sign it, and we'll see if he follows through."
Ukraine ready for peace
On March 4, the Ukrainian parliament welcomed US President Donald Trump's peace initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, expressing confidence in his ability to play a decisive role in ending hostilities.
A statement issued by the parliament conveyed the Ukrainian people's strong desire to end the conflict and their belief that Trump's involvement efforts could play a crucial role in achieving peace for Ukraine, Europe, and the world.
Trump recently made a series of executive decisions in retaliation to his concerns regarding Zelensky's dedication to the peace process with Russia, including the temporary suspension of intelligence sharing with Ukraine and the halt of military aid.
In an effort to repair relations, Zelensky described the clash with Trump as "regrettable" and expressed a desire to "make things right." Trump, meanwhile, claimed that Zelensky assured him of Ukraine's readiness to engage in peace talks with Moscow and finalize a deal granting the US access to Ukrainian minerals.
During his address to Congress, Trump read aloud from a letter by Zelensky, in which the Ukrainian president stated, "Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer." Despite the current tensions, both leaders appear committed to resolving their differences and restoring cooperation.
