Zelensky has his eyes set on 'peace summit' in autumn, without Russia
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The Ukrainian President hopes to hold a "peace summit" this autumn, following talks in Saudi Arabia, with the alleged aim of ending the war.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends an event in Mykhailivska Square in Kiev, Friday, July 28, 2023 (AP)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his hope on Wednesday for a "peace summit" to be convened this autumn, following last week's talks in Saudi Arabia, which he considered a stepping stone to this end.
Almost 40 countries are set to be represented at upcoming talks in Jeddah on August 5 and 6, with the Ukrainian President actively seeking broad international support to endorse principles allegedly aimed at ending the war that started 18 months ago, without Russia's presence.
Addressing Ukrainian diplomats in a speech, Zelensky claimed that his team is keen on collaborating with allies in building an international consensus for the proposed "peace summit".
The goal is to establish a comprehensive settlement that fits Ukraine's demands only, as per Zelensky's vision of peace. Other key points include ensuring food and energy security, nuclear safety, and the release of all prisoners related to the conflict, as per his claims.
While no venue has been confirmed for the "peace summit" yet, Ukrainian and Western officials have clarified that Russia will not be participating in the meeting.
Read more: Peace talks will hinge on proposal considerate of Moscow's interests
Earlier last week, The Wall Street Journal reported that Saudi Arabia is set to hold peace negotiations between Western nations, Ukraine, and important emerging powers, such as India and Brazil while excluding Russia.
The summit would gather top officials from up to 30 nations in Jeddah on the 5th and 6th of August. Ukraine and Western officials hope that the efforts will culminate in a peace conference later this year, aiming for using the agreed-upon principles to design future peace discussions between Russia and Ukraine in favor of Kiev.
Saudi Arabia is attempting to play a stronger role in Ukraine diplomacy after it was accused by Washington of siding with Russia in maintaining high oil prices. According to Western officials, Saudi Arabia was chosen to host the second round of negotiations in part to persuade China, which has maintained tight ties with Moscow, to attend.
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