Resumption of U.S.-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia Amid Calls for Pressure on Putin
U.S. and Russian negotiators will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss a ceasefire and peace in Ukraine, following recent dialogues between American and Ukrainian officials. Key topics will include a proposed pause in attacks on energy infrastructure, with Zelenskyy urging pressure on Putin. Concerns have emerged about narratives surrounding the legitimacy of Russian claims over Ukrainian territories.
The United States and Russia are scheduled to resume negotiations in Saudi Arabia on Monday, aimed at establishing a ceasefire and working towards a peace agreement to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. A key point of the discussions will likely be a proposed cessation of attacks on energy infrastructure, which both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have tentatively supported.
Steve Witkoff, former Middle East envoy under President Donald Trump, emphasized the importance of communication in conflict resolution, stating, “I’m not sure how anyone would expect an end to a conflict when you’re not communicating.” He expressed optimism for progress in the talks as they unfold in Riyadh.
Zelenskyy, who was briefed by Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov following discussions with American negotiators, highlighted that while talks are progressing, significant pressure must be exerted on Putin: “But no matter what we’re discussing with our partners right now, Putin must be pushed to issue a real order to stop the strikes…the one who brought this war must be the one to take it back.”
Concerns have arisen regarding Witkoff’s remarks pertaining to the annexed Ukrainian territories, where he indicated that the local populations favored being under Russian governance. These claims were contested, as the referendums conducted in these regions are internationally regarded as fraudulent and illegitimate. As emphasized by former Secretary of State Antony Blinken in 2022, the U.S. will not recognize Russia’s claims over any Ukrainian territory seized by force.
Witkoff also recounted his conversations with Putin, noting a personal connection marked by a portrait gift to Trump and expressing his belief in the merits of open communication, stating, “This is the kind of connection that we’ve been able to reestablish through a simple word called communication… I don’t regard Putin as a bad guy.”
The upcoming U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia signal ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the necessity of communication for progress. Zelenskyy insists on substantial pressure on Putin to facilitate a halt to hostilities. However, concerns arise regarding the narratives promoted by some negotiators regarding Ukrainian sovereignty, and the legitimacy of Russia’s claims in the region remains contentious among international stakeholders.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
