US and Russia Engage in Ceasefire Talks in Saudi Arabia
US and Russian officials commenced negotiations in Saudi Arabia for a limited ceasefire in Ukraine, backed by Donald Trump’s advocacy. They aim for a one-month halt in strikes, focusing on energy infrastructure, but significant uncertainties remain regarding the terms. Ongoing military actions by Russia underscore the delicate nature of these talks, with a notable gap persisting between both nations on key treaty conditions.
On Monday morning, US and Russian officials initiated discussions in Saudi Arabia, aiming to negotiate a limited ceasefire in Ukraine. Former President Donald Trump is advocating for these talks, which may lay the groundwork for lasting peace. Ukraine and Russia have tentatively agreed to halt strikes on energy infrastructure for a month, following Trump’s communications with both leaders last week.
Despite this cautious agreement, uncertainties persist regarding the commencement and scope of the ceasefire, particularly whether it will encompass additional critical sites such as hospitals, bridges, and vital utilities. Meetings are primarily taking place at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Riyadh, where US officials are engaging both Ukrainian and Russian representatives separately. The US plans to facilitate discussions for overland shipping safety in the Black Sea.
Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy, expressed optimism, stating, “The ultimate goal is a 30-day ceasefire, during which time we discuss a permanent ceasefire. We’re not far away from that.” Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov highlighted productive discussions around ensuring the protection of energy facilities and infrastructure, while President Volodymyr Zelenskyy endorsed his delegation’s constructive approach.
Zelenskyy articulated intentions to present the US with a list of energy facilities that should remain unaffected by Russian strikes. Russia’s delegation includes Sergey Beseda, tied to the FSB, and Grigory Karasin, who previously engaged in the 2014 Minsk negotiations. Notably, Witkoff has made controversial statements legitimizing Russia’s claims in occupied Ukrainian regions, raising concerns amid ongoing tension.
This backdrop of diplomacy has seen Russia intensify its military operations, evidenced by recent drone attacks on Kyiv that resulted in civilian casualties. There remains a significant gap between Moscow and Kyiv regarding acceptable terms for a peace treaty, with Russia imposing maximalist demands that complicate negotiations. Ukraine remains apprehensive of Russia’s sincerity due to historical failures in upholding agreements, exacerbating its distrust.
The preliminary talks between the US and Russia in Saudi Arabia represent a significant, albeit tentative, step towards a ceasefire in Ukraine. While there is a framework for a limited halt in strikes, the broader context emphasizes skepticism regarding Russia’s commitments and the legitimacy of its demands. The outcomes from these discussions could impact future relations in the region significantly, as both sides remain far apart on crucial issues.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
