A Ukrainian delegation is holding talks with U.S. officials in Riyadh about a partial ceasefire targeting energy and critical infrastructure strikes. This technical meeting precedes separate negotiations scheduled with Russian delegates. The discussions involve security proposals and reflect President Zelensky’s initiative for peace. Ukraine has clarified there will be no direct talks with Russia in Riyadh.

A Ukrainian delegation is currently engaged in discussions with their U.S. counterparts in Riyadh, focusing on technical aspects of a proposed partial ceasefire concerning energy and critical infrastructure strikes, as stated by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov on March 23. This meeting precedes planned negotiations involving separate discussions between Ukrainian and Russian delegates scheduled for March 24.

The Ukrainian delegation comprises Umerov and Pavlo Palisa, the deputy head of the President’s Office. Umerov emphasized the initiative’s aim by stating, “We are implementing the President of Ukraine’s directive to bring a just peace closer and to strengthen security.” The discussions will review proposals to protect energy facilities and critical infrastructure, involving military and energy experts.

President Volodymyr Zelensky had previously indicated that both Ukrainian and American delegations would convene in Riyadh on March 24, while U.S. negotiators intend to engage in independent talks with both Ukrainian and Russian representatives. This method, referred to as “shuttle diplomacy,” has been described by Special Envoy Keith Kellog.

In another development, diplomatic talks between U.S. officials and Moscow are anticipated to occur in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on March 23, as indicated by U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff. It is also noteworthy that Ukraine has made it clear that no direct communications between Ukrainian and Russian officials will take place in Riyadh.

The ongoing discussions between Ukrainian and U.S. delegations in Riyadh focus on establishing a partial ceasefire, particularly concerning energy infrastructure. This meeting serves as a precursor to upcoming negotiations involving both Ukrainian and Russian delegates. The collaborative effort aims to implement security measures while upholding President Zelensky’s directive for a just peace. The diplomatic actions are part of broader efforts to engage with Moscow and emphasize that no direct communications between Ukraine and Russia will occur during this session.

Original Source: kyivindependent.com

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