President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine recently visited Qatar to meet with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to discuss various important issues. Qatar has been acting as a mediator between Kyiv and Moscow in efforts to bring back Ukrainian children who have been illegally held by Russia. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, over 19,500 children have been confirmed as abducted by Russia, with less than 400 of them having been returned home. Zelensky and Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani are set to discuss the continuation of this work under the international coalition for the return of Ukrainian children and also at the upcoming global peace summit in Switzerland. The summit will cover topics such as an all-for-all prisoner swap, energy and nuclear security, and free navigation of the Black and Azov seas, with over 100 states and international organizations confirming their participation.
In addition to discussing the return of Ukrainian children, President Zelensky and Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani will also talk about various bilateral economic and security issues. President Zelensky was also planning to visit Saudi Arabia to garner support for the peace summit, as the country has played a crucial role in negotiating prisoner exchanges with Russia in the past. However, Saudi Arabia has maintained close economic ties with Russia, strengthening after the beginning of the full-scale war, and reportedly does not plan to attend Ukraine’s peace summit. Despite this, Ukraine continues to seek support from various international partners in its efforts for peace and security in the region.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden is set to meet with President Zelensky in Normandy following the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of D-Day. The meeting is an important step in strengthening ties between the United States and Ukraine, with support from the U.S. being crucial in Ukraine’s current challenges. President Biden’s meeting with Zelensky comes at a critical time, just before attending the G7 summit where global leaders will come together to discuss important issues facing the world today. The engagement of world leaders in supporting Ukraine in its fight for peace and security is essential for the country’s path forward.
Overall, the international community plays a crucial role in supporting Ukraine in various aspects, from the return of abducted children to negotiating prisoner exchanges and maintaining economic ties with key partners. President Zelensky’s visits to Qatar and planned visit to Saudi Arabia highlight Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts to garner support and push for peace in the region. The upcoming global peace summit in Switzerland and meetings with world leaders like President Biden signify the importance of international cooperation in addressing the challenges faced by Ukraine. As Ukraine continues to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics, support from allies and international partners remains vital for its path towards peace and security.
