Ukrainian and U.S. officials are set to meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential partial ceasefire with Russia, following earlier discussions leading to a 30-day truce proposal. The talks are led by Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov and aim to clarify ceasefire details. Continued strikes by both sides, including a tragic drone attack in Kyiv, highlight the ongoing conflict despite diplomatic efforts.

Ukrainian and U.S. officials are convening in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential partial ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Russia. This meeting, expected to take place late on Sunday, is part of a diplomatic initiative spearheaded by U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at resolving the war that has persisted for three years. It will precede Monday’s discussions between U.S. and Russian delegations.

Previously, discussions held in Saudi Arabia facilitated a 30-day truce proposal accepted by Ukraine. The Ukrainian delegation, headed by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, is prepared for a decisive approach, as President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has highlighted the significance of this leadership. Nevertheless, Ukrainian officials regard the meeting as predominantly technical in nature, focusing on key details regarding a potential ceasefire.

Heorhii Tykhyi, spokesperson for Ukraine’s foreign ministry, stated that the discussions will clarify the modalities and supervision of possible ceasefire mechanisms. Last week, President Vladimir Putin agreed to a 30-day ceasefire proposal concerning attacks on each other’s energy infrastructure; however, this did not extend into a broader 30-day truce desired by the U.S. and supported by Ukraine.

President Trump has indicated that measures to mitigate escalation in the conflict are “somewhat under control” and expressed hopes for a wider ceasefire by April 20. Russian and U.S. experts will meet on Monday to address shipping safety in the Black Sea, as reported by the Kremlin.

Despite the diplomatic efforts, reports of continued strikes from both sides persist, with Russian forces making slow advances in territories they claim to annex. A recent drone attack on Kyiv resulted in tragic fatalities, including a child, showcasing the harsh realities on the ground amid ongoing negotiations.

The upcoming talks between Ukrainian and U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia signify a crucial diplomatic effort to potentially establish a partial ceasefire with Russia. While there has been progress in the discussions leading up to this meeting, the situation on the ground remains precarious, with ongoing strikes reported by both parties. Achieving a comprehensive truce within the projected timeline remains a key objective for the U.S. and Ukrainian authorities.

Original Source: www.straitstimes.com

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