US-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia: A Hope for Ceasefire in Ukraine

US and Russian officials are engaged in talks in Saudi Arabia to discuss a partial ceasefire in the Ukraine war. Despite proposed plans from both sides, ongoing attacks continue. The Kremlin has downplayed expectations for a swift resolution, focusing instead on specific negotiations surrounding the Black Sea grain deal and energy targets. Ukrainian President Zelensky has called for increased pressure on Russia to end the conflict.

On March 25, officials from the United States and Russia initiated discussions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, regarding a potential partial ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This meeting followed previous talks between representatives from Washington and Kyiv, as President Donald Trump seeks to expedite an end to the three-year war, hoping that these discussions will lead to a constructive breakthrough. Despite this, cross-border aggression has continued without pause.

Originally intended to occur simultaneously to facilitate shuttle diplomacy, the US-Russian talks are now occurring sequentially. Reports from Russia’s TASS news agency confirmed the commencement of discussions mid-morning GMT. The Ukrainian delegation, led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, concluded discussions with the US team on the previous night. Umerov characterized the meeting as productive, noting that key topics, including energy concerns, were addressed in the pursuit of a “just and lasting peace.”

Steve Witkoff, an envoy for Trump, expressed optimism regarding the possibility of achieving a “full-on” ceasefire as a result of the Saudi meetings. He commented on the potential for significant progress in securing a ceasefire related to Black Sea shipping, which he believes could lead to a comprehensive cessation of hostilities.

Nevertheless, the Kremlin has tempered expectations for a swift resolution. Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesperson, indicated that the negotiations are in their initial stages, with numerous unresolved issues concerning the proposed ceasefire’s implementation. President Vladimir Putin has dismissed calls from the US and Ukraine for an immediate halt to hostilities, preferring instead to limit the ceasefire to energy infrastructure targets.

Peskov emphasized that the primary objective of discussions with the United States would center around the possibility of reviving the 2022 Black Sea grain deal, which was vital for the secure navigation of Ukrainian agricultural exports through the Black Sea. Moscow withdrew from the agreement in 2023, citing Western failures to fulfill commitments regarding the easing of sanctions on Russian agricultural products.

A senior Ukrainian official stated that Kyiv intends to propose a more comprehensive ceasefire, encompassing stoppages of strikes against energy facilities, infrastructure, and naval operations. In the lead-up to the negotiations, both sides initiated renewed drone strikes, with Ukrainian officials reporting that a recent Russian drone attack in Kyiv tragically resulted in multiple civilian casualties, including a child.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged international allies to increase pressure on Russia, advocating for new strategies to terminate the ongoing violence and conflict. As Moscow enters the Saudi discussions, a thaw in relations with Washington under Trump has bolstered Kremlin confidence, with Peskov asserting that opportunities for mutual cooperation exist despite existing disagreements. He remarked, “we may disagree on some things but that does not mean we should deprive ourselves of mutual benefit.”

The ongoing talks in Riyadh between the US and Russia over a potential ceasefire in Ukraine reflect a critical step toward resolving a prolonged conflict. While there is cautious optimism regarding progress, particularly relating to maritime operations, the Kremlin has warned against expectations of a swift solution. Continued hostilities underscore the challenges that lie ahead as both sides navigate complex negotiations. Addressing such multifaceted issues is crucial for fostering a peaceful resolution to this conflict, thereby promoting stability in the region.

Original Source: risingnepaldaily.com