U.S. and Ukraine Officials to Meet in Saudi Arabia on Potential Ceasefire Talks
Ukrainian and U.S. officials will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential ceasefire with Russia, highlighting U.S. diplomatic efforts under President Trump. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is optimistic about peace, despite ongoing conflict. The discussions aim to clarify technical aspects of ceasefire arrangements, amidst rising European concerns about U.S.-Russia relations. Trump expressed confidence in controlling the situation with hopes for a ceasefire by April 20.
Ukrainian and U.S. officials are scheduled to meet in Saudi Arabia on Sunday to discuss a potential partial ceasefire with Russia. This meeting is part of a concerted diplomatic effort led by President Donald Trump aimed at concluding three years of conflict. Subsequent discussions between U.S. and Russian delegations are planned for Monday in the same location, as U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff expresses optimism regarding peace prospects.
Witkoff conveyed on Fox News that he believes President Vladimir Putin desires peace. He anticipates significant progress in Saudi Arabia concerning a ceasefire for Black Sea shipping, asserting this could lead to a comprehensive cessation of hostilities soon thereafter. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz highlighted the U.S. is exploring various measures, including those related to Ukrainian children relocated to Russia, to foster confidence in achieving peace.
Despite Putin’s previous agreement to a 30-day ceasefire affecting energy infrastructure, hostilities have continued, exemplified by a severe Russian drone strike in Kyiv that resulted in the death of at least three individuals. Simultaneously, Russian authorities reported the downing of numerous Ukrainian drones and a fatality in Rostov.
In response to ongoing Russian advances in Eastern Ukraine, Kyiv has endorsed Trump’s call for an extensive ceasefire. Defence Minister Rustem Umerov will lead the Ukrainian delegation, which President Volodymyr Zelenskiy indicated would facilitate quick and effective action. Nevertheless, officials have characterized the Riyadh discussions as primarily technical, focusing on the specifics of potential ceasefire arrangements.
Concerns among European leaders have arisen regarding the nature of dialogues between Trump and Putin. There is apprehension that the United States may consider a peace agreement with Russia, potentially overlooking European interests. In response, Britain and France are increasing military support for Ukraine, while several nations intend to raise their defense budgets to diminish reliance on U.S. support.
Witkoff has attempted to assuage fears regarding broader Russian ambitions, stating he does not believe Putin seeks to invade Europe as he did in World War II. Furthermore, Trump indicated that efforts to prevent further escalation in the war appear to be “somewhat under control,” with hopes of establishing a broader ceasefire by April 20.
This meeting represents a critical juncture in international diplomacy to address the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the desire for peace and stability in the region.
The upcoming talks between Ukrainian and U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia represent a critical effort to negotiate a possible partial ceasefire with Russia. U.S. officials express optimism about achieving significant progress while addressing concerns among European leaders regarding potential Russian aggression. The situation in Ukraine remains tense, with ongoing hostilities, but there is a collective desire to move towards a resolution and stability.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
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