US-Russia Talks on Ukraine Ceasefire Initiate in Riyadh
US and Russian officials commenced discussions in Riyadh focused on a partial ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict. Both sides have different proposals, while cross-border attacks persist. The talks follow a prior meeting between US and Ukrainian delegates. Ukraine’s calls for pressure on Russia continue amid escalating violence, highlighting the complexities of the negotiations.
On March 25, US and Russian officials commenced discussions in Riyadh regarding a potential partial ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. This meeting follows discussions between delegates from the United States and Ukraine, wherein US President Donald Trump expressed a desire for a swift resolution to the war. Despite differing proposals for temporary ceasefires, cross-border attacks persist, highlighting the challenges both parties face.
Initially intended to occur simultaneously to facilitate shuttle diplomacy, the talks have shifted to a sequential format. The commencement of the US-Russian discussions was reported by Russia’s TASS news agency at approximately 0730 GMT. The Ukrainian delegation, led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, concluded their discussions with the Americans the previous evening, noting productive dialogues concerning energy and Ukraine’s aspirations for a “just and lasting peace.”
Steve Witkoff, Trumps’s envoy, expressed confidence that the talks could lead to significant advancements, particularly regarding a ceasefire in the Black Sea. He indicated that progress could potentially evolve towards a comprehensive ceasefire, emphasizing the importance of discussions in Saudi Arabia.
However, expectations for a swift resolution were tempered by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, who indicated that the negotiations were still in the early stages. Peskov highlighted numerous unresolved issues concerning the implementation of a potential ceasefire and referenced Russian President Vladimir Putin’s rejection of a joint US-Ukrainian proposal for an immediate ceasefire, favoring a narrower halt focused on energy infrastructure.
Additionally, Peskov confirmed that discussions would center on the possibility of reinstating the 2022 Black Sea grain deal, which previously allowed safe navigation for Ukrainian agricultural exports. Moscow’s withdrawal from this agreement in 2023 was attributed to allegations that the West failed to meet its obligations to alleviate sanctions on Russian agricultural products.
Both parties engaged in drone attacks prior to the negotiations, with Ukrainian officials reporting incidents that resulted in civilian casualties in Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called upon allies to intensify pressure on Russia to halt the ongoing violence, underscoring the need for new measures to resolve the conflict. As discussions unfold, Peskov acknowledged the potential for beneficial cooperation, asserting that differences do not preclude mutual benefits between the nations.
The US-Russia talks in Riyadh represent a critical effort to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with discussions centered on achieving a potential ceasefire. Despite the optimism expressed by US officials, the Kremlin has cautioned against swift expectations, emphasizing the complexities involved. Both parties must navigate difficult negotiations, particularly in light of recent clashes and humanitarian concerns. The outcome of these discussions will be crucial in shaping the future trajectory of the Ukraine crisis.
Original Source: risingnepaldaily.com
