Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that delegations from the United States and Ukraine will meet in Saudi Arabia on March 24 to discuss the necessary issues for achieving a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine War.

During official visits in the capital city of Oslo, Zelensky held a joint press conference with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store. In his speech, Zelensky thanked the Norwegian people and government for their support during the 3 years of ongoing war, emphasizing that Ukraine defended its independence by fighting back after Russia initiated the conflict. Zelensky mentioned that efforts to secure security guarantees for Ukraine from the US, European countries, and all allies continue, highlighting the importance of Norway’s involvement in this process.

“WE REALLY WANT THE WAR TO END” The Ukrainian President stated that they are working towards a fair and permanent end to the war, declaring, “We want this more than anyone else in the world.” Zelensky stressed the need to increase pressure on Russia to enforce a ceasefire, pointing out ongoing discussions with the US on implementing a ceasefire in air and sea zones. Referring to his recent phone call with US President Donald Trump, Zelensky noted that Ukraine accepted the proposal to halt attacks on energy and civilian infrastructure.

“US AND UKRAINE REPRESENTATIVES TO MEET” Zelensky expressed the need for technical-level discussions on the ceasefire between US and Ukrainian delegations, revealing that representatives from both countries will convene in Saudi Arabia on March 24. He stated, “The meeting will be between Ukraine and the US. Then between the US and Russia. Or as I said, parallel meetings will be held on the same issue in one country.” Zelensky clarified that the status of Crimea, illegally annexed by Russia, was not discussed during his meeting with Trump, emphasizing that Crimea remains Ukrainian territory. Addressing claims regarding the Zaporizhia Nuclear Power Plant, allegedly sought after by Russia for occupation in Ukraine, Zelensky mentioned that this matter was not discussed with Trump. He affirmed that the nuclear plant belongs to Ukraine, stating, “All nuclear plants belong to the Ukrainian people. These are state-owned nuclear facilities.” Zelensky expressed the importance of Ukraine becoming a NATO member to resolve security issues, emphasizing the benefits he believes it would bring. However, he acknowledged that NATO’s strongest ally, the United States, does not support Ukraine’s NATO membership.