High-Stakes Talks: Zelenskiy and Bin Salman Meet Amid Looming Peace Discussions

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy visits Saudi Arabia for a meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before crucial discussions with U.S. officials on ending the war in Ukraine. The U.S. has altered its approach, seeking quick resolution but halting military aid to Kyiv. Talks will explore a minerals deal and an agreement framework, amid intensified pressure and military challenges.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy embarked on a significant diplomatic mission to Saudi Arabia to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as Kyiv faces escalating challenges amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

The United States, shifting its strategy, aims to expedite the war's resolution, having ceased military aid to Ukraine, while engaging Moscow directly. The meeting, anticipated to broach an agreement framework, comes as Kyiv struggles to secure firm U.S. security guarantees.

Zelenskiy's discussions in Saudi Arabia include a proposed minerals deal, while European allies are urged to fortify support as Ukrainian forces face encirclement in the strategic Kursk region. This comes amid Russia's intensified attacks, placing further pressure on Ukraine's fragile position.

(With inputs from agencies.)