As the recent 'cracks' in relations between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump seem to be widening, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday said that he is "fully committed" to having constructive dialogue with United States representatives in Saudi Arabia.
With Russia intensifying its attacks against Ukraine as the US is making efforts to end the war, Trump has strongly criticised Moscow's actions and said that the country is considering imposing sanctions and tariffs against Russia.
Over 15 people were killed in Russia's drone and missile attack in Dobropillia and Kharkiv on Saturday.
Trump has also urged both nation leaders to sit together and negotiate terms to end the Russia-Ukraine war.
The first round of discussions took place with Russia in Riyadh last month. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov took part in the discussions with US representatives, while the Ukraine diplomats were absent.
"Realistic proposals are on the table. The key is to move quickly and effectively," said Zelenskyy.
Zelenskyy would be meeting Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday in Riyadh and would be staying for the meeting on Tuesday with the US representatives for peace deal talks in Jeddah.
"We are fully committed to constructive dialogue, and we hope to discuss and agree on the necessary decisions and steps," he added.
Zelenskyy's Saudi visit comes after the US has paused its military aid and intelligence to Ukraine. The US is Ukraine's biggest military backer. Though European allies have shown solidarity and support to Ukraine, they won’t be able to replace the US’s military aid.
It was after Zelenskyy’s blowout with Donald Trump at the Oval Office that the US has hardened its stance against Ukraine. Trump has said that it was easier to deal with Russia than Ukraine.
After the White House showdown, Zelenskyy has said, "Our meeting in Washington, at the White House on Friday, did not go the way it was supposed to be. It is regrettable."
However, Zelenskyy and the European allies are worried about Trump’s close relationship with Putin.
White House's special envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg has said that instead of acting as Ukraine's ally, Washington would play "an objective interlocutor role."