Russia Seeks Progress in Upcoming Saudi Arabia Talks on Ceasefire

Moscow anticipates progress at talks in Saudi Arabia next week, with U.S. officials pursuing parallel negotiations with Ukrainian and Russian representatives for a potential ceasefire. Russia has rejected a 30-day ceasefire proposal but aims to halt specific aerial strikes, focusing on resolute discussions led by Senator Grigory Karasin and FSB adviser Sergey Beseda.

Moscow is optimistic about achieving progress during upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia, as stated by a Russian negotiator on Saturday. Amid these discussions, U.S. officials are concurrently preparing for talks with both Ukrainian and Russian representatives regarding a potential ceasefire amidst ongoing conflict.

Russia has dismissed a joint proposal by the U.S. and Ukraine advocating for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, opting instead for a more limited proposal to cease aerial strikes targeting energy infrastructure. The U.S. aims to engage in parallel dialogue with both sides to address the current stalemate.

Senator Grigory Karasin expressed a dual sentiment of being “combative and constructive” as he prepares to lead the Russian delegation alongside FSB adviser Sergey Beseda. Both negotiators have elicited examination as they are not affiliated with conventional diplomatic channels.

Karasin, now a senator, previously held a diplomatic position, while Beseda is an experienced figure within the FSB. Notably, Beseda was present in Kyiv during Ukraine’s 2014 pro-EU demonstrations, noted for violent government responses. In anticipation of the talks, Karasin emphasized their intention to resolve at least one issue, integral to their negotiations.

The Russian team is scheduled to leave for Saudi Arabia on Sunday and return by Tuesday, with high hopes for advancing discussions on the conflict. Furthermore, the article includes an urgent appeal from The Moscow Times to its readers for support, as it faces restrictive actions from Russian authorities aimed at curtailing independent journalism.

The forthcoming talks in Saudi Arabia signify a critical opportunity for Russia to potentially progress in negotiations concerning the ongoing conflict. With a focus on addressing specific issues rather than embracing a comprehensive ceasefire, the Russian delegation remains hopeful. The article also highlights the challenges faced by independent journalism in Russia as highlighted by The Moscow Times’ plea for support.

Original Source: www.themoscowtimes.com