Photo: ERA
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the issue of territorial concessions to Ukraine was discussed during the talks in Jeddah, The Guardian reported on 12 March.
Washington prepares talks with Russia
According to Rubio, the meeting with Ukraine’s representatives focused on how the peace talks could work and what security guarantees Kyiv needs.
The Secretary of State also confirmed that the US is planning contacts with Russia today.
“I hope for a positive response from the Russian side. We strongly urge the Russians to cease all military operations,” he said.
Peace talks vs. military solution
Rubio stressed that, in his opinion, there is no military solution to this conflict.
At the same time, he noted that Ukraine needs an effective deterrent mechanism against future attacks, and Europe should be more involved in this process.
US position on security guarantees
Rubio also commented on the mineral supply agreement discussed by Ukraine and the US.
“I would not consider this agreement as a security guarantee, but it creates a personal interest for us in the security of Ukraine,” he stressed.
What’s next?
The announcement of possible territorial concessions provoked a mixed reaction. Whether this means a new phase of the negotiation process or just a diplomatic manoeuvre before future contacts with Russia remains an open question.
