Zelenskyy Seeks “Just and Lasting Peace” as Ukraine, US Set for Saudi Talks

Ukrainian and US officials to meet in Jeddah for ceasefire discussions, as Zelenskyy pushes for diplomatic solutions.

Kyiv [Ukraine], March 9: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed a high-level meeting between US and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia next week, as efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and a potential peace framework with Russia continue.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Zelenskyy detailed his upcoming diplomatic engagements, emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to achieving “just and lasting peace” while urging for swift and effective negotiations.

"Ukraine Has Sought Peace from the First Second of This War": Zelenskyy

Zelenskyy, who has been advocating for stronger international intervention, stressed Ukraine’s readiness for diplomatic dialogue and expressed hope that upcoming meetings would yield tangible progress.

“Ukraine has been seeking peace from the very first second of this war. Realistic proposals are on the table. The key is to move quickly and effectively.”

The Ukrainian delegation—led by Andriy Yermak, Andriy Sybiha, Rustem Umerov, and Pavlo Palisa—will remain in Jeddah for further discussions with the US team on March 12, following Zelenskyy's scheduled one-on-one meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on March 11.

Ukraine and UK Strengthen Ties Amid Peace Efforts

Ahead of the Saudi talks, Ukrainian and UK diplomatic teams met in Kyiv to discuss collaborative steps toward achieving a peaceful resolution to the ongoing war.

Zelenskyy acknowledged the UK’s steadfast support and reaffirmed Ukraine’s determination to end the war with a fair and lasting agreement.

"Today, a highly productive meeting took place in Kyiv between the diplomatic teams of Ukraine and the UK. We discussed our joint steps that could bring us closer to peace and accelerate diplomatic efforts. I'm grateful for the support.”

During a recent summit in London on March 2, Zelenskyy and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer discussed Ukraine’s future relationship with Europe and potential security guarantees that could ensure regional stability.

Earlier this year, the UK and Ukraine signed a historic 100-year partnership agreement, reinforcing long-term cooperation on reconstruction, technological innovation, and defense capabilities.

US and Ukraine to Discuss Ceasefire and Peace Framework

Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that he will meet Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia, signaling an early-stage negotiation for an initial ceasefire and a long-term peace settlement.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also confirmed that Jeddah will host these crucial discussions, marking the first high-level engagement between US and Ukrainian officials since February 28.

What’s Next?

With ceasefire talks back on the table, Ukraine is set to continue pushing for diplomatic breakthroughs, even as fighting on the ground intensifies.

As international pressure mounts, Zelenskyy’s call for a “realistic” and “lasting” peace agreement will test the willingness of global powers to broker a resolution—or risk further escalation.

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Tags: Ukraine War, Ukraine US Talks, Saudi Arabia Diplomacy, Zelenskyy Peace Talks, Russia Ukraine War, Ceasefire Negotiations, US Ukraine Relations, UK Ukraine Partnership, Jeddah Summit, Ukraine Peace Agreement