Delegations from the United States and Ukraine are conducting talks in Saudi Arabia to negotiate a resolution to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed the focus on energy security, while US Envoy Steve Witkoff expressed cautious optimism regarding potential peace. The ongoing violence in Ukraine, marked by recent drone strikes, complicates the discussions, as does the Kremlin’s indication that negotiations are only beginning.

On March 24, 2025, delegations from the United States and Ukraine commenced discussions in Saudi Arabia as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine war. The talks, confirmed by Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, primarily focus on safeguarding energy infrastructure and critical sites amidst ongoing hostilities. These negotiations are facilitated by the Trump administration, which seeks to establish a sustainable peace framework.

Umerov reiterated Ukraine’s strong commitment to achieving a “just peace” alongside enhancements to national security, stating, “We are implementing the President of Ukraine’s directive to bring a just peace closer and to strengthen security.” Cautious optimism was expressed by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, who indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin might be open to peace discussions.

As these diplomatic engagements unfold, the situation in Ukraine detrimentally escalates. Reports indicate that at least seven individuals perished in recent Russian drone strikes. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called upon Western allies to elevate their pressure on Moscow to cease its aerial attacks. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported fires and significant structural damage in various districts due to the strikes.

Zelenskyy highlighted the alarming frequency of Russian offensive actions, revealing that Ukrainian forces intercepted a significant number of Russian drones. He urged for innovative solutions and more substantial international support to put an end to the escalating violence. Russia, in turn, has communicated that it successfully intercepted numerous Ukrainian drones in response to these hostilities.

Former President Donald Trump has implied that while progress towards de-escalation is being made, the discussions remain complex. He emphasized the importance of maintaining constructive relationships with both Putin and Zelenskyy to reach a resolution. While an agreement to halt attacks on energy infrastructure was briefly achieved, lasting measures prove complicated due to mutual accusations of aggression.

The Kremlin, through spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, has moderated expectations, asserting that negotiations are still in early developmental stages. Discussions also include revisiting the 2022 grain deal to facilitate safe agricultural exports from Ukraine, a pact that Russia withdrew from in 2023, citing unmet agreements regarding sanctions relief.

Senator Grigory Karasin, leader of the Russian delegation, noted the limited expectations for the upcoming talks while cautiously optimistic about potential progress. He emphasized a “combative and constructive” approach during negotiations, aiming to resolve at least one pressing issue in the discussions.

The ongoing US-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia reflect a significant diplomatic effort to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Despite optimistic endeavors for peace articulated by Umerov and Witkoff, the situation remains volatile, with escalating violence and challenges in reaching a sustained agreement. The Kremlin’s cautious approach and discussions around prior agreements underscore a complex diplomatic landscape, as both sides seek to navigate multifaceted issues amidst enduring hostilities.

Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com

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