U.S. and Russia Engage in Ceasefire Negotiations in Saudi Arabia
U.S. and Russian negotiators have initiated ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia aimed at establishing a partial truce in Ukraine. The discussions follow previous negotiations with Ukrainian representatives and target the suspension of long-range attacks. Differing views on the scope of the ceasefire persist, alongside ongoing military actions from Russia, creating a challenging negotiation landscape.
U.S. and Russian officials commenced ceasefire negotiations in Saudi Arabia aimed at establishing a partial truce in Ukraine. This meeting followed prior discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators, as reported by Russian news agencies, including Tass and RIA-Novosti. The discussions are expected to address a cessation of long-range strikes on energy facilities, civilian infrastructure, and attacks in the Black Sea to facilitate safe commercial shipping.
Ukraine and Russia tentatively agreed to a limited ceasefire, following a conversation between U.S. President Donald Trump and the leaders of both nations. However, there exist discrepancies regarding the scope of targets exempt from attacks. While the White House mentioned cover for both “energy and infrastructure,” the Kremlin limited the focus to specifically “energy infrastructure.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has suggested including railways and ports in the ceasefire terms.
Amidst these discussions, Russia executed a series of drone strikes across Ukraine, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least seven individuals, including a father and his young daughter in Kyiv. In response, Zelenskyy remarked, “There must be more pressure on Russia to stop this terror,” emphasizing the role of international partners including the U.S. and Europe in this effort.
Zelenskyy expressed a readiness for a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire as proposed by President Trump. Conversely, President Vladimir Putin has set a complete ceasefire on the condition that Ukraine halts arms supplies and military mobilization—a position rejected by Ukraine and its allies. Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, projected optimistic expectations for progress at the Saudi talks, particularly concerning a ceasefire for Black Sea shipping, which could pave the way for a broader cessation of hostilities.
In conclusion, the ongoing ceasefire discussions between U.S. and Russian negotiators in Saudi Arabia signify a critical effort towards mitigating conflict in Ukraine. With differing interpretations of the ceasefire scope and continued military actions by Russia, achieving mutual agreement remains a complex challenge. Nonetheless, President Zelenskyy’s openness to a comprehensive truce alongside international support could influence future negotiations.
Original Source: apnews.com
