Russia and U.S. to Discuss Black Sea Shipping and Ukraine Peace in Jeddah
Russia and the U.S. plan to discuss safe shipping in the Black Sea and peace in Ukraine in Jeddah. Following recent advances by Russian forces, the U.S. has shifted its policy, with President Trump initiating talks and suspending military aid to Ukraine. Discussions may involve the Black Sea Initiative and addressing shipping risks.
The Russian Federation and the United States will convene to address secure shipping routes in the Black Sea and explore a potential settlement for peace in Ukraine. These discussions are scheduled to occur in the Saudi city of Jeddah in the coming days, as confirmed by the Kremlin. Following advancements made by Russian forces in 2024, President Donald Trump altered U.S. policy regarding the conflict, initiating bilateral talks and suspending military assistance to Ukraine.
Trump’s representative, Steve Witkoff, indicated that the U.S. and Russian negotiations would commence on Sunday; however, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov mentioned that this may occur early next week instead. Peskov conveyed optimism, stating that “negotiations will continue at the expert level” and noted that Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov had engaged in discussions with U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz recently.
Peskov revealed that during a phone conversation between President Putin and President Trump, the “Black Sea Initiative” was a key topic of discussion. This initiative follows the Black Sea Grain Initiative established in July 2022, which facilitated the export of nearly 33 million metric tons of Ukrainian grain despite ongoing hostilities. Russia had previously exited the agreement, citing unmet obligations affecting its own agricultural exports.
On March 18, the White House reported that both leaders reached an accord on initiating technical discussions concerning a maritime ceasefire, aiming towards achieving a full ceasefire and lasting peace. The World Bank’s reports from April 2024 indicated that, despite risks related to shipping in the Black Sea, both Russia and Ukraine continued to export grain to international markets successfully.
The ongoing conflict, which commenced with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, has resulted in significant human loss, millions displaced, and substantial destruction of infrastructure, marking a severe confrontation between Moscow and Western nations. The conflict can be traced to the 2014 Maidan Revolution in Ukraine, which led to the annexation of Crimea and subsequent violence in eastern Ukraine.
In summary, discussions between Russia and the United States regarding Black Sea shipping and potential peace plans for Ukraine are set to take place in Jeddah. The shift in U.S. policy under President Trump has altered the dynamics of the conflict, as both nations aim to navigate the complexities of the ongoing war and maritime safety. The potential outcomes of these negotiations could have significant implications for regional stability and global grain markets.
Original Source: ddnews.gov.in
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