Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to meet with US officials in Saudi Arabia next Monday to discuss potential peace talks, coinciding with confirmed discussions between US and Russian representatives the same day. This meeting comes amid ongoing concerns surrounding military assistance to Ukraine and the staggering impact of over three years of conflict.

In a recent statement, Zelensky emphasized the need for Russian President Vladimir Putin to "stop making unnecessary demands that only prolong the war." Among Moscow’s contentious requests is a complete cessation of military support for Ukraine, a move that Zelensky argues endangers his country’s sovereignty and security.

Adding to the complexities of the ongoing negotiations, Zelensky firmly opposed any proposal to remove NATO membership from the table, an idea pushed by Putin as a prerequisite for peace. "That would be a big gift to Russia," said Zelensky, highlighting the stakes involved in these talks.

Additionally, Zelensky dismissed reports from the White House suggesting he considered ceding ownership of Ukraine's nuclear power plants during a phone conversation with former President Donald Trump. He clarified that while the Zaporizhia power plant—currently controlled by Russia—was discussed, "all nuclear power plants belong to the people of Ukraine." However, he did express openness to cooperation with the US in modernizing the plant, should it be transferred from Russian control.

As diplomatic efforts intensify, Zelensky is advocating for a protective framework for critical infrastructure ahead of the talks, particularly in light of ongoing hostilities. Russian airstrikes have repeatedly targeted Ukrainian energy facilities, causing nationwide disruptions. "A Ukrainian delegation will present a list of our vital infrastructure that requires protection from Russian assaults," Zelensky noted.

The urgency for a ceasefire is palpable, as both Zelensky and Putin reportedly agreed in principle to halt hostilities during discussions facilitated by the US. Yet, defining the conditions for such a ceasefire has proven challenging. Recent comments from Russian officials indicate that Moscow demands assurances of Ukraine's neutrality and exclusion from NATO in any peace deal, a condition that the US believes may not reflect a realistic outcome.

In the backdrop of these negotiations, violence continues unabated. Just recently, airstrikes in Ukraine resulted in civilian casualties while Ukrainian drone attacks targeted key installations in Russia, illustrating the tenuous climate surrounding the discussions.

In an address to European Union leaders via video link, Zelensky reiterated the critical need for sustained military aid, requesting at least €5 billion (approximately £4.18 billion) for artillery shells urgently. He urged European nations not to ease pressure on Russia and stressed the essential role of the EU in the peace negotiation process.

As the conflict shows little sign of abating, the world watches closely, hoping that these high-stakes talks in Saudi Arabia might pave the way for a meaningful resolution.