Ukrainian and US Officials Engage in Diplomatic Talks in Saudi Arabia
Ukrainian and US officials initiated talks in Saudi Arabia aimed at securing energy facilities and ending the three-year conflict with Russia. US Special Envoy Witkoff expressed hope for peace, while discussions also cover the future of displaced Ukrainian children. Despite recent attacks on both sides, there is cautious optimism about establishing a ceasefire and broader peace agreements. European nations are enhancing support for Ukraine amid these developments.
Ukrainian and US officials commenced discussions in Riyadh on Sunday, focusing on proposals to secure energy facilities and critical infrastructure amidst ongoing diplomatic initiatives by US President Donald Trump to resolve the three-year conflict. The talks precede upcoming negotiations between US and Russian delegations scheduled for Monday.
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism regarding the potential for peace, stating, “I feel that [Russian President Vladimir Putin] wants peace” and predicting significant progress, particularly concerning a ceasefire in the Black Sea. He anticipates a gradual shift towards a comprehensive ceasefire between the two nations.
White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz confirmed that the US is exploring various confidence-building measures aimed at concluding the conflict, which includes addressing the future of Ukrainian children taken to Russia. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov conveyed Ukraine’s commitment to achieving a just peace in a post on Facebook.
Despite an agreement from Putin last week to halt attacks on each other’s energy infrastructure for 30 days, the situation remains fragile, with both sides reporting continued attacks. Just recently, a Russian drone assault on Kyiv resulted in three deaths, including a child, and substantial damage to infrastructure.
Conversely, Russian authorities claimed to have intercepted 59 Ukrainian drones targeting southwestern regions, with one fatality reported in Rostov. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, contending with persistent Russian offensives, has endorsed Trump’s plea for a comprehensive ceasefire.
Trump declared that efforts to manage the escalation of the Ukraine-Russia war are “somewhat under control” and indicated a goal for a broad ceasefire by April 20. Waltz elaborated that following an agreement on a Black Sea ceasefire, subsequent discussions would address front line control and related verification mechanisms.
European nations, particularly Britain and France, are intensifying military and logistical support for Ukraine, alongside plans to boost defense spending independently from the US. Witkoff, however, reassured regarding European security concerns, asserting that Putin does not seek to expand aggression into Europe, indicating a distinct context compared to World War Two.
The ongoing talks between Ukrainian and US officials in Saudi Arabia signify a crucial step towards diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Ukraine-Russia conflict. With initiatives for ceasefires being discussed, as well as addressing specific humanitarian concerns, there is cautious optimism about achieving lasting peace. Nevertheless, continued military actions highlight the challenges that lie ahead as both sides strive for stability in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
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