Ukraine and its allies are working to gain international support for a peace plan in talks hosted by Saudi Arabia. Officials are optimistic that China will attend the meeting, which will bring together national security advisers and senior officials from around 40 countries. The goal is to agree on key principles for a future peace settlement to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy hopes that the talks will lead to a “peace summit” involving leaders from around the world in the autumn.
Direct peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are not currently possible due to ongoing conflict, as Ukraine seeks to regain territory through a counter-offensive. Ukraine aims to build a broader coalition of diplomatic support by reaching out to Global South countries such as India, Brazil, and South Africa.
The 10-point peace plan includes calls for the restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, withdrawal of Russian troops, protection of food and energy supplies, nuclear safety, and the release of all prisoners. The participation of China would be a significant diplomatic achievement, as China has maintained close ties with Russia and has so far refrained from condemning the invasion.
Officials are hopeful that China will attend the talks after positive signals were received. If China does participate, it may do so through envoys or via video link. The invitation has been extended, and Ukraine is actively working to secure Chinese participation.
In addition to peace talks, Ukraine will also emphasize the impact of Russia’s actions on food prices. Since Russia quit a deal allowing safe passage of Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea and conducted air strikes on Ukraine’s ports, food prices have risen.
Saudi Arabia’s decision to host the talks reflects its desire to play a prominent diplomatic role in resolving the conflict. The country previously played a role in mediating a prisoner swap between Ukraine and Russia. The talks will be attended by U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan.
This is the beginning of a process, and active fighting continues in Ukraine. Russia has stated that it needs to understand the goals and agenda of the talks.