Relations between Ukraine and the US are returning to normal – Yermak
The head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, announced this in an interview with Reuters, Ukrinform reports.
“I think we have had wonderful negotiations with the Americans. I am confident that we are back on the right track,” Yermak noted.
Yermak emphasized that during the discussions in Saudi Arabia, the Ukrainian delegation demonstrated its serious commitment, which was recognized by the American side.
“We showed that we are very serious, and the Americans understood that. Dear American friends, you know that we are partners. That was our goal,” he added.
On March 25, during talks in Saudi Arabia, the United States reached a series of agreements with Ukraine and Russia to end attacks in the Black Sea and strikes on energy infrastructure.
However, Russia has put forward conditions for the agreement to be implemented, demanding sanctions be eased to restore access to global export markets for its fertilizers and agricultural products.
Yermak noted that Russia's demands reflect its general approach to peace negotiations.
“This shows that they (Russia) have not agreed to an unconditional ceasefire, which is absurd. Our position is that we must enter without any conditions,” he said.
Yermak also expressed confidence that US President Donald Trump sincerely wants to end the war.
“President Trump wants to end this war, that's great… Russia is not seeking to end this war. The best way to ensure otherwise would be for Russia to strictly implement the agreements reached in Saudi Arabia – at least the initial agreements on an unconditional ceasefire. And then move toward a truly sustainable peace,” Yermak emphasized.
Read also: Moscow must be held accountable for any violation of agreements – Ukrainian Foreign Ministry
As Ukrinform previously reported, the United States and Ukraine agreed on measures to ensure the safety of navigation in the Black Sea, prevent the use of force, and guarantees against the use of commercial vessels for military purposes.
At the same time, the Kremlin stated that the agreement on security in the Black Sea will come into force only if some sanctions against Russia are lifted.
Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine
Source: ukrinform.net