“We discussed the next step towards a just and lasting peace”, said Jermak in a statement afterwards.
A Ukrainian government source tells AFP that Jermak will lead the Ukrainian delegation, which may also include Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.
“Quick and lasting peace”
The meeting is scheduled to take place in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, on Tuesday, according to reports.
Zelenskyj writes on X that he will visit Saudi Arabia on Monday to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He also confirms that his staff will stay in the country to “work with our American partners”.
“Ukraine is working and will continue to work constructively for a quick and lasting peace”, writes Zelenskyj.
The announcement of a new meeting comes after Friday’s failed meeting between Trump and Zelenskyj in the Oval Office, which ended with the visiting Ukrainian delegation leaving the White House.
Zelenskyj’s letter was appreciated
Since then, the atmosphere has been tense between the two leaders. Trump accuses Zelenskyj of not wanting peace and of sabotaging the Americans’ proposal for a ceasefire in Ukraine. Zelenskyj, on the other hand, has repeatedly emphasized that Ukraine needs security guarantees for a lasting peace to become a reality.
Steve Witkoff says that Trump appreciated the letter he received from Zelenskyj days after the clash in the White House.
He thought Zelenskyj’s letter was a very positive first step. There was an apology. There was an acknowledgment of what the USA had done for Ukraine and a sense of gratitude.
