US and Russia Initiate New Negotiations in Saudi Arabia to Address Ceasefire Issues in the Black Sea

US and Russian representatives have initiated new negotiations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, focusing on establishing a ceasefire in the Black Sea and addressing further issues such as the return of Ukrainian children. The closed meetings involve key officials from both nations, with the potential for further consultations. The discussions occur amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and previous engagements with Ukraine.

On March 24, representatives from the United States and Russia commenced a new round of negotiations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The preceding day, American officials engaged in discussions with Ukrainian representatives to outline key issues to be addressed in the talks. The meeting in Riyadh is reportedly closed to the press, as journalists were reportedly requested to vacate The Ritz-Carlton hotel, the selected venue for these discussions.

The primary purpose of the US-Russia talks is to negotiate a ceasefire in the Black Sea region, aimed at ensuring safe navigation. Following earlier discussions with Ukraine, the US delegation intends to facilitate agreements involving both Ukrainian and Russian representatives. Notably, a source familiar with the situation highlighted that the negotiations would also cover a “control line” designed to oversee peacekeeping efforts and stabilize current separations in the ongoing conflict. Additionally, confidence-building measures, including the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia, are to be part of the agenda.

The US delegation is comprised of Andrew Peek, Senior Director of the White House National Security Council, and Michael Anton, a senior official from the State Department. From Russia’s side, Grigory Karasin, Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, and General Sergey Beseda, an advisor to the Head of the FSB and former operational head at the FSB’s 5th Service, represent Russian interests. Following the discussions with Ukraine, further consultations with the Ukrainian side may still occur today.

Previously, US Special Envoy to Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, indicated that the US would engage in separate discussions with both Ukrainian and Russian delegations, a format referred to as “shuttle diplomacy.” However, direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia were not anticipated, as stated by Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi. The five-hour talks with the Ukrainian delegation on March 23, characterized as “constructive and substantive,” focused on numerous technical issues, particularly those concerning the protection of key infrastructure and energy facilities.

These ongoing discussions are framed within the context of Donald Trump’s initiative to achieve a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire. Ukraine has indicated its willingness to support this proposal, contingent upon Russia’s reciprocal commitment. The Kremlin, however, has only indicated a temporary cessation of assaults on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, despite ongoing attacks on Ukrainian cities. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted in a recent address that an unconditional ceasefire proposal was made in Ukraine, yet he criticized Russia for its reluctance to halt hostilities, suggesting that it continues to prolong the conflict.

In summary, the recent US-Russia talks in Riyadh focus on establishing a ceasefire in the Black Sea, ensuring safe navigation, and discussing measures for peacekeeping. The negotiations involve high-level representatives from both sides and underscore the complexities of the ongoing conflict, as Russia’s commitment remains uncertain. The outcome of these discussions could potentially lead to significant developments regarding peace and stability in the region.

Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua