U.S. and Russia to Discuss Black Sea Shipping and Ukraine Ceasefire in Saudi Arabia
The United States and Russia will negotiate Black Sea shipping safety and a Ukraine ceasefire in Saudi Arabia. The discussions follow recent communications between Presidents Trump and Putin, with significant involvement from Ukrainian officials. Maritime safety and the situation in Crimea remain contentious points in these diplomatic efforts.
The United States and Russia are scheduled to engage in discussions regarding the safety of Black Sea shipping and a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. Ukrainian and Russian officials have confirmed that these negotiations will occur in Saudi Arabia on Monday. This announcement follows a recent phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, during which maritime security was a primary focus.
The discussions will occur in Riyadh, beginning with the U.S. delegation’s meeting with Ukrainian officials, followed by separate discussions with Russian representatives. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that “shuttle diplomacy” is anticipated, as the Trump administration aims to mediate a maritime ceasefire agreement.
Russia’s delegation is expected to include notable figures such as Grigory Karasin, chair of the Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Sergei Beseda, an adviser to the head of Russia’s Federal Security Service. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov elaborated that the agenda would cover “technical negotiations on the implementation of a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, a full ceasefire, and permanent peace.”
Concerns surrounding shipping safety in the Black Sea have intensified following Russia’s renewed attacks on merchant vessels in Odesa. A recent incident involving a Greek-managed bulk carrier resulted in the deaths of four seafarers, highlighting the urgency of ensuring maritime safety, including the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which was brokered by Turkey and the United Nations in July 2022.
Since Russia’s exit from this grain deal in 2023, Ukraine has created its own navigation corridor, targeting Russian warships to safeguard its maritime routes. Discussions on establishing an international force for Ukraine were also hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, contingent on a potential ceasefire.
President Emmanuel Macron of France has proposed extending the nuclear security guarantee to the European Union, a proposal that has been met with strong opposition from Russia. Russian officials, including Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, have criticized these discussions as promoting “anti-Russian sentiment.”
During the aforementioned phone call, both Trump and Putin reached a consensus on pausing attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. As a result, President Zelensky is now focusing on reinforcing the protection of critical assets like power plants, railways, and ports. However, he dismissed assertions regarding U.S. intentions to take control of the Zaporizhhia nuclear power plant, which has been under Russian occupation since early 2022.
The subject of Crimea continues to provoke contention, as Russia claims it as part of its territory, while the majority of the international community regards it as Ukrainian land. Although there are indications that Trump may recognize Russian control over Crimea, Zelensky affirmed that this matter was not discussed in their recent conversation.
In conclusion, the upcoming discussions between the United States and Russia in Saudi Arabia focus on Black Sea shipping safety and a potential ceasefire in Ukraine amidst rising tensions. The negotiations aim to address critical issues such as maritime security, the aftermath of recent attacks on shipping vessels, and the contentious status of Crimea. Enhanced international engagement is pivotal for fostering stable agreements and diplomatic relations in the region.
Original Source: www.marineinsight.com
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