US-Ukraine Negotiations in Saudi Arabia Amid Ongoing Conflict
US and Ukrainian officials are set to meet in Saudi Arabia for crucial talks on ending the Russian invasion amid persistent violence. Optimism from US officials contrasts with Kremlin cautions about the complexity of negotiations. Key issues include proposed ceasefires and resuming the Black Sea grain shipping deal, as the conflict continues to escalate.
On Sunday, US and Ukrainian officials will convene in Saudi Arabia to discuss strategies to halt the ongoing Russian invasion. A Ukrainian delegation member reported that these negotiations follow warnings from the Kremlin of “difficult negotiations” ahead and the long journey towards achieving peace. US President Donald Trump emphasized the urgency to conclude the three-year conflict, expressing optimism for tangible outcomes from the talks in Riyadh, which will feature separate discussions with Ukrainian and Russian delegates.
Although both Russia and Ukraine have proposed different temporary ceasefire plans, hostilities have persisted. A recent Russian aerial attack in Kyiv tragically resulted in the deaths of three civilians, highlighting the precarious context of the negotiations. Initially set for simultaneous discussions, the ceasefire talks are now anticipated to occur consecutively.
The meetings are scheduled to commence on Sunday evening, according to a Ukrainian source, while Russian representatives indicated their discussions with the US would take place on Monday. Trump envoy Steve Witkoff shared a hopeful outlook, suggesting the potential for agreements that could transition towards a comprehensive ceasefire, particularly regarding operations in the Black Sea.
Despite these optimistic assertions, the Kremlin has tempered expectations regarding immediate resolutions. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that the current discussions are merely at their outset, cautioning that numerous unresolved questions and details concerning the execution of a ceasefire remain. President Vladimir Putin has also dismissed proposals for a swift 30-day cessation of hostilities, advocating instead for a pause in strikes solely targeting energy infrastructure.
Peskov highlighted that the focal point of discussions with the US would revolve around the revival of a 2022 Black Sea grain deal designed to facilitate safe navigation for Ukrainian agricultural exports. Moscow had previously exited this agreement, alleging that the West failed to honor commitments regarding the easing of sanctions on Russian agricultural exports. Kyiv is reportedly advocating for a broader ceasefire encompassing various attacks beyond energy facilities.
As the negotiations approach, violence continues, with Ukrainian authorities documenting multiple drone assaults that have led to civilian casualties, including a tragic strike that killed a child in Kyiv. Meanwhile, Ukraine claimed a rare military success by taking control of a village in the eastern Lugansk region amid the ongoing hostilities.
In a bid to escalate pressure on Russia, Ukrainian President Zelensky has called upon allies to intensify their efforts. He maintains that new measures against Moscow are necessary to halt the ongoing wartime strikes. Russia stated that it repelled numerous Ukrainian drone strikes, resulting in civilian casualties on their side as well.
As the Saudi talks unfold, discussions are set against a backdrop of improving relations between Russia and the US. Peskov asserted the importance of potential “mutually beneficial cooperation” between the two nations, acknowledging the complexities yet advocating for a collaborative approach in various sectors.
In summary, US and Ukrainian officials will convene in Saudi Arabia to negotiate possible ceasefires amid ongoing violence from the Russian invasion. Despite initial optimism from US representatives, Kremlin officials have cautioned about the challenges ahead, emphasizing many unresolved issues. This diplomatic engagement seeks to address immediate humanitarian concerns and broader strategic deals, notably regarding Ukraine’s grain exports. The talks represent a crucial step towards seeking peace, underscored by a call for renewed international pressure on Russia.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
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