Moscow Optimistic for Progress at Saudi Negotiations Amid Ongoing Conflict
Moscow seeks progress in Saudi negotiations amidst ongoing conflicts with Ukraine, rejecting a US-Ukraine ceasefire proposal. Continuous aerial strikes highlight tensions. A US envoy defends Putin, while both sides engage in further military actions, raising questions about the peace talks.
Moscow is optimistic about achieving “some progress” during the upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia, aimed at halting the ongoing three-year conflict with Ukraine. This statement comes ahead of a scheduled meeting between United States officials and delegations from both Russia and Ukraine. Russia has notably dismissed a joint US-Ukraine proposal for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, instead advocating for a halt to aerial strikes on energy infrastructure.
Despite the impending talks, hostilities persist, exemplified by Russian aerial assaults, including a strike on Zaporizhzhia that resulted in civilian casualties. The recent Russian drone attacks on Kyiv have also caused significant destruction, leading to numerous injuries and fatalities. Kyiv’s mayor reported a considerable number of injuries due to falling debris from these attacks.
US negotiators, referred to as engaging in “shuttle diplomacy,” will conduct separate meetings with the Russian and Ukrainian teams. A senior Ukrainian official indicated a focus on establishing a partial ceasefire to safeguard critical energy and infrastructure targets. Russian negotiator Grigory Karasin emphasized a “combative and constructive” approach to the talks without outlining specific goals for the discussions.
Karasin and his counterpart Sergey Beseda, both outside traditional diplomatic circles, will represent Russia. Concerns have been raised over their selection, given their backgrounds; Karasin is a career diplomat with political ties, while Beseda has ties to Russia’s security services. This choice has been perceived by Ukraine as possible evidence of Russia’s reluctance to pursue genuine peace.
While Russia continues its military operations, US envoy Steve Witkoff defended President Putin as a leader who is diligent in the pursuit of conflict resolution. He downplayed the complexities contributing to the war and his interactions with Putin during a recent trip to Moscow. Amidst these conflicts, Ukraine has retaliated with its own drone strikes, further escalating tensions on both sides.
In summary, Russia remains hopeful for progress in the upcoming Saudi talks concerning the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, despite their rejection of a full ceasefire proposal. Continuous military actions exemplify the enduring hostilities as both countries prepare for negotiations. The roles of the negotiators and their commitments to the talks raise questions about intentions for a genuine peace process.
Original Source: www.bssnews.net
