High-level talks between US and Ukrainian officials commenced in Jeddah on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, as both nations seek to make progress toward ending Russia's war in Ukraine. The meeting comes amid escalating tensions and a recent spike in military actions, including a massive Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday, expressed hope that the talks would yield "practical outcomes." Zelenskyy did not attend the Jeddah negotiations but emphasized Ukraine's commitment to a "constructive" dialogue with the United States. The Ukrainian delegation, led by Presidential Chief of Staff Andrii Yermak, includes the country's foreign and defense ministers, as well as senior military officials.

The talks mark the first official session between US and Ukrainian representatives since a public spat between Zelenskyy and former US President Donald Trump in late February, which led to a freeze in US military aid to Ukraine. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, leading the American delegation, expressed optimism ahead of the meeting, stating that both Ukraine and Russia must recognize that "there is no military solution" to the conflict. He hinted at the possibility of renewed US aid if the talks progress positively.

Escalating Drone Warfare

The negotiations unfold against the backdrop of intensified drone attacks. Ukrainian officials claimed to have launched "the largest drone attack in history" against Moscow overnight, targeting energy infrastructure and other sites. Russia reported shooting down 337 Ukrainian drones, with 91 intercepted over Moscow alone. The attack resulted in at least two fatalities and multiple injuries, as well as significant property damage, according to Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.

In response, Ukraine's air force reported intercepting 79 Russian drones and one ballistic missile overnight. Ukrainian National Security Official Andriy Kovalenko suggested that Kyiv might propose a partial ceasefire, including a halt to air and naval hostilities, as a "first step" toward ending the war. He described the drone strikes as a "signal" to Russian President Vladimir Putin to consider de-escalation.

Saudi Arabia's Mediation Role

Saudi Arabia has emerged as a key mediator in the conflict, hosting the talks and facilitating dialogue between the warring parties. Zelenskyy praised Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his efforts in advancing peace, stating that Saudi Arabia provides a "crucial platform for diplomacy." The discussions also touched on economic cooperation, particularly in energy, infrastructure, and security sectors.

Meanwhile, reports surfaced that Steve Witkoff, a special envoy for former President Trump, is scheduled to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Witkoff, who has played a behind-the-scenes role in US-Russia negotiations, previously secured the release of American teacher Marc Fogel from Russian custody. His visit underscores ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between Washington and Moscow.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the diplomatic push, significant hurdles remain. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov cautioned against optimism, urging Russia to "hope for the best but be ready for the worst." He emphasized that Moscow would continue to defend its interests, even as Ukraine seeks to leverage its recent military actions to gain concessions.

The talks in Jeddah represent a critical juncture in the conflict, which has dragged on for over three years with no clear end in sight. While both sides have expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges, including deep-seated mistrust and competing geopolitical interests.

As the world watches, the outcome of these negotiations could shape the future of Ukraine and the broader region. For now, the focus remains on whether diplomacy can prevail over the relentless cycle of violence.