Moscow seeks progress in Saudi talks amid continued warfare with Ukraine. U.S. negotiators will mediate separately with both sides. Russia proposes halting strikes on energy facilities instead of accepting a full ceasefire, while skepticism remains about genuine efforts for peace. Casualties have resulted from increased drone attacks on both sides, highlighting the conflict’s enduring volatility.

Moscow has expressed hope for achieving notable progress during upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia, as stated by a Russian negotiator ahead of discussions involving U.S. officials and representatives from both Ukraine and Russia. The meeting aims to address the protracted conflict enduring for three years. Instead of accepting a proposed full ceasefire, Moscow advocates for suspending aerial assaults on energy infrastructure while both parties continue attacks prior to the discussions.

In a recent Russian airstrike on Zaporizhzhia, a family of three tragically lost their lives, igniting outrage among Ukrainian officials. Additionally, drone strikes launched on Kyiv resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals and injuries to seven others. Kyiv’s mayor, Vitali Klitschko, confirmed that numerous districts were affected by what he termed a “massive attack by enemy UAVs.”

U.S. representatives are set to engage with both sides separately during the negotiations in Saudi Arabia, which have been characterized by U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg as “shuttle diplomacy” conducted within hotel premises. Previous attempts at meaningful agreements have fallen short despite continuous diplomatic efforts, including direct appeals from U.S. President Donald Trump.

Senator Grigory Karasin, leading the Russian delegation, expressed anticipation for at least some degree of progress but did not disclose specifics regarding the agenda. Ukraine, on its end, aims to negotiate a partial ceasefire encompassing energy, infrastructure, and maritime operations. Kyiv will be represented by its defense minister during the discussions.

Critics have raised concerns regarding the selection of negotiators from Russia, who do not belong to traditional diplomatic structures. Karasin, a seasoned diplomat, and Sergey Beseda, an FSB advisor, have backgrounds that some question in relation to their commitment to achieving genuine peace. President Putin had previously stated a directive to halt the targeting of energy facilities; however, Ukraine remains skeptical of Russia’s intentions amidst ongoing assaults.

While the situation remains precarious, with drone attacks escalating on both sides, it appears that mutual distrust persists, complicating efforts for a stable resolution. In the latest series of attacks, Ukrainian defenses reported a wave of drone strikes, causing civilian casualties, and leading President Zelensky to visit troops defending critical positions against Russian encroachment.

In summary, Moscow anticipates generating progress in negotiations scheduled in Saudi Arabia amidst ongoing military actions between Russia and Ukraine. With differing objectives, both delegations aim to reach a partial ceasefire, amid skepticism regarding Russia’s intentions. Despite the hopes of negotiators, the prevailing atmosphere remains fraught with distrust as both parties engage in aerial assaults, underscoring the complexities of ending this prolonged conflict.

Original Source: www.bssnews.net

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