U.S. and Russian Negotiators Initiate Ceasefire Discussions in Saudi Arabia

U.S. and Russian negotiators are engaged in ceasefire discussions in Saudi Arabia to address hostilities in Ukraine. Key issues include the protection of energy and civilian infrastructure and a halt to Black Sea attacks. Ukraine is open to a 30-day ceasefire, contingent on Russia’s conditional demands, drawing sharp distinctions between both parties’ interpretations of the agreement.

On Monday, U.S. and Russian negotiators convened in Saudi Arabia to discuss a partial ceasefire in Ukraine. This meeting took place shortly after U.S. and Ukrainian officials held separate negotiations. Reports confirmed that the talks began in Riyadh and are intended to lead to further discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian teams.

The focus of these discussions includes a cessation of long-range assaults on civilian infrastructure and energy facilities as well as a halt to attacks in the Black Sea, which are vital for ensuring the safety of commercial shipping. Earlier, Ukraine and Russia tentatively agreed to a limited ceasefire, following discussions between U.S. President Donald Trump and the leaders of both countries, although opinions on the details diverge significantly.

The White House indicated that an agreement would protect “energy and infrastructure,” while the Kremlin restricted the scope to “energy infrastructure.” President Zelenskyy of Ukraine has appealed for protective measures to include railways and ports as well.

Recently, a drone attack launched by Russia resulted in the tragic deaths of at least seven individuals in Ukraine, prompting President Zelenskyy to stress the urgency for collective international pressure on Russia to cease these violent actions. He stated that it is crucial for all partners, including the U.S. and Europe, to unite in this effort.

President Zelenskyy signaled Ukraine’s openness to a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire as proposed by President Trump; however, he noted that President Putin’s conditions for an absolute ceasefire involve ending arms supplies to Ukraine and suspending military mobilization, which Ukraine and its allies have firmly rejected. In a discussion on “Fox News Sunday,” Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism about the negotiations, particularly regarding a ceasefire in the Black Sea, suggesting that it could catalyze a broader agreement for cessation of hostilities.

In summary, negotiations between U.S. and Russian officials are underway in Saudi Arabia, aiming for a partial ceasefire in Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict. Both countries have divergent interpretations of the ceasefire’s terms, particularly regarding protected infrastructure. While Ukraine shows interest in extended ceasefire offers, conditions imposed by Russia remain unacceptable to Ukraine and its allies. The international community’s involvement remains critical in the pursuit of peace.

Original Source: www.seattletimes.com