U.S. and Ukraine Host Diplomatic Talks in Saudi Arabia Before Truce Negotiations with Russia
Ukrainian and US officials met in Saudi Arabia to discuss a possible ceasefire with Russia. The talks focused on protective measures for key infrastructures. While a prior 30-day truce was proposed, the meeting was deemed technical. Despite discussions, hostilities continue, highlighted by recent attacks in Ukraine.
On Sunday, Ukrainian and US officials convened in Saudi Arabia, ahead of a critical meeting between US and Russian teams, aimed at negotiating a resolution to the ongoing conflict stemming from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The talks are part of a broader US-mediated effort to establish a ceasefire in the war that has been ongoing for three years.
Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed on Facebook that discussions concerning a partial ceasefire commenced in Riyadh, stating, “We’ve started the meeting with the American team in Riyadh.” The agenda prioritizes protective measures for energy facilities and critical infrastructure, underscoring the importance of safeguarding essential resources during hostilities.
These discussions are subsequent to prior meetings in Saudi Arabia, where a proposed 30-day truce was initially accepted by Kyiv. Umerov’s leadership in the latest meeting is anticipated to facilitate swift and substantial actions by Ukraine, although Ukrainian officials view this particular meeting as primarily technical in nature.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi indicated the focal points for this meeting included clarifying the specifics of potential ceasefire arrangements, monitoring, and control measures. In the previous week, Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed to a proposal aimed at ceasing attacks on energy infrastructure for a 30-day period, but this did not extend to a comprehensive truce desired by the US and supported by Ukraine.
Former President Trump remarked on the progress towards de-escalation, suggesting that the situation was “somewhat under control.” There exists an aspiration on the part of the United States to secure a broader ceasefire within the next few weeks, ideally targeting an agreement by April 20, as reported by Bloomberg News.
Despite ongoing diplomatic negotiations, reports indicate that both Ukrainian and Russian forces continue to engage in strikes. A recent drone attack by Russian forces on Kyiv resulted in the deaths of at least three individuals, including a child, while Russian air defenses claimed to have intercepted numerous Ukrainian drones in their territory, further exacerbating the conflict.
The ongoing ceasefire discussions and diplomatic efforts represent a significant step toward resolving the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. High-level meetings and technical discussions indicate a commitment to addressing critical issues, although the road to a comprehensive ceasefire remains fraught with challenges and continued hostilities. The situation remains dynamic, and further developments will be closely monitored by the international community.
Original Source: www.france24.com
