Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, aiming to mend his relationship with the United States and secure a favorable conclusion to the conflict with Russia, was slated to meet with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This meeting precedes a series of talks to be held on Tuesday between Ukrainian and U.S. officials in the oil-rich Gulf state. The Saudi Crown Prince, who has previously faced international criticism for human rights concerns, is stepping into a broader diplomatic role and has been central to efforts to mediate the Russia-Ukraine war, including a significant U.S.-Russia prisoner exchange last year. Despite initial plans, Zelensky postponed a visit after a U.S.-Russia meeting in Saudi Arabia seeking to reset their relationship without his presence.

However, Zelensky announced on social media his intention to visit Saudi Arabia soon, emphasizing his determination to secure a “just and lasting peace” for Ukraine. He stated that Ukraine seeks peace and has put forward realistic proposals, advocating for swifter and more efficient action. Despite being under pressure to agree to a peace deal from the U.S., including a critical engagement with U.S. officials, support from the U.S. has been paused.

Steve Witkoff, the Trump administration’s special envoy to the Middle East, noted that Zelensky’s recent deferential approach has improved Ukraine’s standing with U.S. officials. Yet, the U.S. stance on supporting Ukraine remains uncertain. President Trump temporarily halted military support for Ukraine and has vacillated on his position towards Russia and Ukraine, at one moment contemplating sanctions against Russia to push for a peace deal, and the next suggesting difficulty in dealing with Ukraine due to ongoing diplomatic engagements with Russia.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/10/us/politics/zelensky-saudi-arabia-prince-ukraine-meeting.html