The U.S. and Ukrainian officials are set to meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss halting Russian aggression. While U.S. President Donald Trump pushes for rapid negotiations, the Kremlin has warned of complex discussions ahead. Both sides have proposed different ceasefire plans amid ongoing attacks. Success of these talks may hinge on revitalizing the Black Sea grain deal and addressing civilian safety.

Discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian officials are set to commence in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, aimed at addressing the ongoing Russian invasion, according to a Ukrainian representative. Concurrently, the Kremlin has expressed concerns about the complexities of the negotiations, noting that the path to achieving peace will be arduous.

U.S. President Donald Trump has advocated for a swift conclusion to the protracted conflict, with his envoy anticipating “real progress” during the talks in Riyadh, which will involve separate meetings with Ukrainian and Russian delegations. Despite various proposals for temporary ceasefires, hostilities have not abated, as evidenced by recent attacks, such as a Russian strike on Kyiv that resulted in civilian casualties.

Initially scheduled for simultaneous execution in Saudi Arabia, the discussions regarding a temporary truce will now occur sequentially. A Ukrainian source indicated, “The meeting with the Americans is planned to take place tonight” in Riyadh. Russian negotiators have slated their discussions with the U.S. for Monday.

Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism that agreements reached may facilitate a “full-on” ceasefire. He stated, “I think you’re going to see in Saudi Arabia on Monday some real progress… gravitate to a full-on shooting ceasefire,” particularly concerning a ceasefire in the Black Sea for vessels of both nations.

Conversely, the Kremlin has tempered hopes for a quick resolution, emphasizing that negotiations are in their initial stages. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov remarked, “We are only at the beginning of this path,” citing numerous unresolved “questions” regarding the implementation of any potential ceasefire.

President Vladimir Putin has dismissed the U.S.-Ukrainian call for a full 30-day ceasefire, advocating instead for a cessation of attacks specifically targeting energy facilities. Peskov expressed that “there are difficult negotiations ahead” during an interview.

A principal focus for the Russian delegation will be a possible revival of a 2022 Black Sea grain deal, facilitating safe navigation for Ukrainian agricultural exports. Peskov stated, “On Monday, we mainly intend to discuss President Putin’s agreement to resume the so-called Black Sea initiative.”

Moscow previously exited the grain deal, citing the West’s failure to meet commitments related to sanctions alleviation on Russian agricultural exports. The Ukrainian side plans to propose a comprehensive ceasefire addressing energy infrastructure and naval attacks as well.

Amidst the lead-up to negotiations, both parties have executed new drone assaults. A recent drone strike in Kyiv resulted in the deaths of three civilians, including a child, exacerbating tensions as emergency services responded to the aftermath of the attacks.

Ukrainian President Zelensky has urged allies to intensify pressure on Russia. He asserted, “New decisions and new pressure on Moscow are needed to bring an end to these strikes and this war.” Meanwhile, Russia reported having intercepted nearly 60 Ukrainian drones overnight, leading to further civilian casualties due to debris from a downed drone.

In a notable development on the battlefield, Ukrainian forces reportedly captured a small village in the Lugansk region, marking a rare victory for them. As talks approach, Moscow appears to experience a thaw in relations with Washington under Trump’s leadership, fostering confidence within the Kremlin. Peskov suggested that there exists substantial potential for “mutually beneficial cooperation” between the two nations, stating, “We may disagree on some things, but that does not mean we should deprive ourselves of mutual benefit.”

The upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia between U.S. and Ukrainian officials are poised to address the ongoing Russian invasion, amid concerns from the Kremlin regarding the complexity of negotiations. With various proposals for ceasefires on the table and the backdrop of continued hostilities, both sides prepare for challenging discussions. The hope is to reach agreements that may facilitate a ceasefire, particularly regarding shipping in the Black Sea, despite ongoing drone attacks and civilian casualties.

Original Source: www.elpasoinc.com

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