Ukrainian and US Officials Engage in Truce Discussions Ahead of Talks with Russia
Ukrainian and US officials held discussions in Saudi Arabia to prepare for upcoming peace talks with Russia concerning a ceasefire in the three-year conflict. Led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, the meetings focused on protecting critical infrastructure. Despite ongoing strikes and military actions, diplomatic efforts seek to establish a broad ceasefire agreement in the coming weeks.
Ukrainian and US officials convened in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, initiating discussions ahead of upcoming US-mediated talks with Russia aimed at ceasing the ongoing conflict that has persisted since Russia’s major invasion of Ukraine three years ago. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed the meeting, stating that the agenda included strategies for safeguarding energy infrastructure and critical sites.
These discussions are part of a series of deliberations that have taken place in Saudi Arabia, initially involving US-Russian negotiations, followed by talks with Ukraine. Previously accepted by Kyiv, a 30-day truce proposal laid the groundwork for these discussions. Despite the strategic nature of the meeting, Ukrainian representatives deem it largely technical, focusing on clarifying details for potential ceasefire arrangements.
The Ukrainian delegation, led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, is optimistic about the capacity for rapid and substantive action, as expressed by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. In anticipation of Monday’s talks, Heorhii Tykhyi, spokesperson for the foreign ministry, emphasized the goal of elucidating the specifics concerning ceasefire protocols and their monitoring procedures.
Recent developments include remarks from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who agreed to halt attacks on energy facilities for 30 days. However, this did not extend to a comprehensive truce that the US and Ukraine sought. Former President Trump mentioned that the situation is “somewhat under control,” with prospective goals for a broader ceasefire being targeted around April 20.
Preparations for further discussions, including issues surrounding maritime safety in the Black Sea, are scheduled for Monday. Nevertheless, ongoing hostilities have continued, with reports of an extensive Russian drone assault resulting in civilian casualties in Kyiv, alongside Ukrainian charges that Russian military operations are persistently advancing in the contested eastern region.
In conclusion, the recent meetings between Ukrainian and US officials mark a critical step in the ongoing efforts to negotiate a ceasefire with Russia. Despite these diplomatic engagements, the situation on the ground remains volatile, highlighting the challenges that persist. Clarity on ceasefire monitoring and infrastructure protection emerges as key points for discussion, with hopes resting on reaching broader agreements in the near future, despite ongoing military actions.
Original Source: www.france24.com
