US and Russia Initiate Ceasefire Negotiations in Saudi Arabia

US and Russia have begun ceasefire negotiations in Riyadh, following Ukrainian and US discussions. Russian representatives include Grigory Karasin and Sergei Beseda, while the US delegation led by Mike Waltz will focus on the ceasefire in the Black Sea and confidence-building measures, including the return of Ukrainian children taken by Russia.

Negotiations have commenced in Riyadh between US and Russian officials, focusing on establishing a partial ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This development follows prior discussions involving Ukrainian and US representatives. The Russian delegation is led by Grigory Karasin, currently the chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the upper house of parliament, accompanied by Sergei Beseda, an adviser from the Federal Security Service.

The talks, taking place in Saudi Arabia, are a direct result of meetings held on Sunday night between a Ukrainian delegation headed by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov and the US team. White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz indicated that the US aims to discuss a ceasefire specifically in the Black Sea region along with “the line of control” between the two nations. He elaborated on the topics to be addressed, including “verification measures, peacekeeping, [and] freezing the lines where they are.”

Additionally, emphasis will be placed on “confidence-building measures,” which Mr. Waltz noted include the imperative return of Ukrainian children who have been taken by Russian forces amidst the conflict. These discussions are crucial in moving towards de-escalation and establishing protocols for peacemaking efforts in the region.

The initiation of ceasefire discussions in Saudi Arabia between US and Russian officials marks an important step in addressing the ongoing Ukraine conflict. With key representatives from both nations present, the talks aim to establish verification measures and peacekeeping efforts, while also focusing on humanitarian concerns such as the return of displaced individuals. Continued dialogue will be essential in striving for a sustainable resolution to the crisis.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com