USA Initiates New Ceasefire Talks with Russia in Saudi Arabia

The United States has commenced negotiations with Russia for a limited ceasefire in Saudi Arabia, following discussions with Ukraine. Initial talks were deemed constructive by Ukraine, focusing on avoiding attacks on energy infrastructure. Although there are positive indications, the Kremlin’s reluctance and conditions pose challenges to achieving a ceasefire. The situation remains critical, given recent violence in Ukraine.

The United States has initiated a new round of negotiations with Russia regarding a limited ceasefire, taking place today in Saudi Arabia. This meeting follows discussions with Ukrainian representatives and aims to establish paths toward a peace resolution in Ukraine through shuttle diplomacy. Reports from the “New York Times” indicate that further talks with Ukraine may depend on the outcomes achieved in these discussions. US mediators are engaging separately with both Moscow and Kiev to facilitate peace.

Ukraine’s initial response to the Sunday evening talks in Riyadh is positive, with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umjerov stating on Facebook that the discussions were “constructive and informative,” particularly addressing critical issues within the energy sector. The Ukrainian delegation operates under the mandate of President Volodymyr Zelensky to secure an “honorable and lasting peace” for both Ukraine and Europe.

The focal point of the negotiations is to devise a strategy for a ceasefire, including a commitment to avoid assaults on energy infrastructures. Ukraine emphasizes the necessity to safeguard other critical objects as well. The ceasefire concept was preliminarily accepted during a prior telephone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former US President Donald Trump, though concrete implementation details remain to be delineated. Recently, both nations have been engaging in extensive drone attacks.

Minister Umjerov indicated that the Riyadh discussions primarily address technical matters, including protection measures for energy and essential infrastructure. “Today we are working our way through a series of complex technical issues,” he explained, noting that the delegation includes energy specialists and military personnel. The Russian agenda includes deliberations on safe shipping initiatives in the Black Sea along with the US-proposed ceasefire in those waters.

President Zelensky reported constructive dialogue, stating, “Our team is working completely constructively and the discussion is very useful.” He stressed the importance of exerting pressure on Putin to halt the attacks, urging that the instigator of the conflict must take responsibility and cease hostilities.

The Ukrainian team is led by Minister Umjerov, while Russia’s delegation includes foreign policy expert Georgi Karassin and intelligence officer Sergei Besseda. US presence encompasses several teams, with special envoy Keith Kellogg and security advisor Mike Waltz among the representatives.

Zelensky criticized Moscow for prolonging the war, asserting that since March 11, an unconditional ceasefire proposal has remained unaddressed due to continued Russian aggression. Noting a recent series of drone attacks, he highlighted the necessity for pressure on Russia to achieve a resolution.

US President Trump expressed a desire to swiftly conclude hostilities, stating favorable conditions for peace exist ahead of the talks. Meanwhile, US special envoy Steve Witkoff remarked that he perceives a willingness for peace from Putin, although the Kremlin maintained a cautious stance with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicating that negotiations are in their initial stages.

The Kremlins remains nonchalant about a potential ceasefire, reiterating prior conditions, including a halt to Western arms supplies to Kiev. Just before the new discussions commenced, a dire drone attack in Kiev led to three fatalities, including that of a child, spotlighting the urgent need for effective negotiations.

In conclusion, the United States has embarked on new negotiations with Russia in Saudi Arabia, seeking a limited ceasefire and paths to peace in Ukraine. Initial talks have received a positive assessment from Ukraine, emphasizing the need for a halt to attacks on energy infrastructure. With both sides engaged in separate discussions, the efficacy of these talks remains contingent upon genuine commitment and responsiveness from all parties involved. As the situation evolves, ongoing dialogue and diplomatic efforts will be essential in addressing the conflict’s complexities and facilitating peace.

Original Source: www.bluewin.ch