U.S. and Russian Negotiators Commence Ceasefire Talks in Saudi Arabia
U.S. and Russian negotiators initiated discussions for a partial ceasefire in Ukraine in Saudi Arabia, following separate talks with Ukrainian representatives. The negotiations aim to halt long-range attacks on energy infrastructure and civilian locations, while mutual accusations threaten to undermine ceasefire progress. Continued drone strikes by Russia underscore the ongoing violence and tension in the region. President Zelenskyy remains open to a proposed ceasefire.
U.S. and Russian negotiators convened on Monday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to discuss a potential partial ceasefire in Ukraine. This meeting followed discussions earlier between U.S. and Ukrainian delegations. Reports indicated that the talks aim to establish a pause on long-range attacks aimed at energy facilities and civilian infrastructure, along with ensuring safety for commercial shipping in the Black Sea.
On the previous Wednesday, an agreement in principle was reached regarding a limited ceasefire, following communication between U.S. President Donald Trump and the leaders of Ukraine and Russia. However, divergent interpretations of the ceasefire’s scope and persistent mutual accusations have complicated progress. The White House has indicated support for a ceasefire covering “energy and infrastructure,” while the Kremlin later clarified that it pertains specifically to “energy infrastructure.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed the need to also protect railways and ports. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov asserted that the agreement is limited to energy facilities, citing an instance of Ukraine’s attack on Russian infrastructure as a potential violation of the ceasefire. In response, Ukrainian military leadership contended that the attack was initiated by Russia, rejecting Peskov’s claims.
Despite ongoing negotiations, Russia launched drone strikes resulting in civilian casualties, including the tragic deaths of a father and his young daughter in Kyiv. Zelenskyy criticized Russia for these actions, emphasizing the need for global pressure to halt such attacks and urging allies to facilitate a comprehensive ceasefire.
Zelenskyy remains open to the 30-day ceasefire proposed by Trump, while Putin has conditioned a full ceasefire on ceasing arms supplies to Ukraine, which Ukraine and its allies oppose. Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism about potential advancements during the talks, particularly regarding a ceasefire affecting shipping in the Black Sea.
Meetings between U.S. and Ukrainian representatives were described as technical, incorporating input from Ukraine’s military and energy sectors. Zelenskyy noted the constructive nature of these discussions and underscored the necessity for Putin to authorize a genuine cessation of hostilities.
On a concerning note, Ukraine’s state railway operator, Ukrzaliznytsia, reported a significant cyberattack affecting its online services, though it maintained that train operations continued normally. Meanwhile, Russian drone attacks persisted, resulting in collateral damage across multiple regions, with several individuals sustaining injuries during these assaults.
In summary, the U.S. and Russian discussions in Riyadh could pave the way for a limited ceasefire in Ukraine, amidst ongoing hostilities and significant civilian casualties. The divergence in interpretations of the ceasefire agreement and mutual accusations threaten to derail progress. President Zelenskyy seeks comprehensive protections for Ukrainian infrastructure while remaining open to negotiations. Escalating drone attacks from Russia complicate the situation further, highlighting the urgent need for concerted international pressure to achieve a peaceful resolution.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
