US and Ukraine Engage in Saudi Arabia for Truce Discussions with Russia

Ukrainian and US officials met in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential ceasefire with Russia. The talks focus on protecting critical infrastructure and refining ceasefire modalities. Despite diplomatic efforts, violence persists, underscoring the complexity of achieving a lasting peace agreement in the conflict.

Ukrainian and US officials convened in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, in advance of truce discussions with Russian delegates. This meeting precedes the US-mediated talks aimed at concluding the three-year conflict following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Ukraine Defence Minister, Rustem Umerov, confirmed the commencement of discussions concerning a potential partial ceasefire amidst ongoing hostilities.

During the meeting, Umerov highlighted the agenda focused on safeguarding energy facilities and critical infrastructure. The recent tactical discussions stem from prior talks in Saudi Arabia, involving initial interactions between US and Russian parties and subsequent agreements pertaining to a 30-day truce proposal accepted by Ukraine. The meeting’s technical nature is emphasized by Ukrainian officials, with further clarifications surrounding ceasefire mechanics anticipated.

The Ukrainian delegation, led by Defence Minister Umerov, seeks to engage in substantive dialogue. He emphasized the urgency of their endeavors, indicating the group’s capability for a rapid response. However, Heorhii Tykhyi, the spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, reiterated the need to refine the specifics of proposed ceasefire arrangements and monitoring methods.

Last week, President Vladimir Putin agreed to a proposal aimed at ceasing strikes on energy infrastructures for a month, but it did not encompass a comprehensive truce that the US and Kyiv had extended support for. Trump pointed out that stability in the Ukraine-Russia conflict is “somewhat under control,” reflecting on the potential for broader ceasefire arrangements by April 20, according to Bloomberg News.

Despite extensive diplomatic efforts, reports indicate continued military confrontations, with both sides sustaining attacks. A recent drone strike in Kyiv caused three fatalities, including that of a young child, whilst Russian forces maintained their operations in eastern Ukraine. Concurrently, Russian defenses countered 59 Ukrainian drones, resulting in civilian casualties in Rostov.

The meetings held in Saudi Arabia mark a significant step in the ongoing efforts to achieve a truce in the Ukraine conflict. While the discussions primarily focus on technical aspects of potential ceasefire agreements, the participation of key Ukrainian and US officials highlights an urgent need for peaceful resolution amidst continued violence. Collaborative talks and clear monitoring proposals will be essential as the situation unfolds further, with hopes for an extensive ceasefire agreement in the near future.

Original Source: www.france24.com