US and Ukrainian officials will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss halting the Russian invasion, with differing expectations from each side. A Russian attack has continued despite ceasefire talks, and both sides aim to secure diplomatic agreements regarding potential ceasefires and a Black Sea grain deal. Nonetheless, the Kremlin has warned of complex negotiations ahead.

On Sunday, United States and Ukrainian officials are set to convene in Saudi Arabia to engage in discussions aimed at halting the ongoing Russian invasion. Ukrainian delegation members indicated that the Kremlin has cautioned that the negotiations may be challenging and that the road to peace could be extended. U.S. President Donald Trump is advocating for a swift resolution to the war, with his envoy expressing expectations for “real progress” during the talks in Riyadh, where separate discussions will occur with Ukrainian and Russian delegations.

While both parties have presented distinct proposals for temporary ceasefires, hostilities have persisted. A recent Russian strike on Kyiv resulted in three civilian fatalities. Originally planned to occur concurrently on Monday, the discussions concerning a potential truce are now anticipated to unfold sequentially. A Ukrainian source confirmed that the meeting with the U.S. officials is scheduled for tonight.

Russia’s negotiators previously stated that their discussions with U.S. representatives would take place on Monday. Trump envoy Steve Witkoff expressed hope that any agreements made could lead to a comprehensive ceasefire. He remarked, “I think you’re going to see in Saudi Arabia on Monday some real progress, particularly as it affects a Black Sea ceasefire on ships between both countries. And from that you’ll naturally gravitate to a full-on shooting ceasefire.”

Despite this optimism, the Kremlin has tempered expectations for a prompt resolution, emphasizing the preliminary nature of the talks. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov commented, “We are only at the beginning of this path” and noted that numerous “questions” remain unresolved regarding the potential execution of a ceasefire. Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed U.S.-Ukrainian calls for an immediate 30-day halt, advocating instead for a pause in attacks solely on energy targets.

Peskov highlighted that Russia intends to discuss the resumption of the Black Sea grain deal during negotiations with the United States. This agreement previously facilitated safe navigation for Ukrainian agricultural exports and was abandoned by Moscow in 2023 due to perceived non-compliance by the West concerning sanctions relief for Russian exports. A senior Ukrainian official conveyed that Ukraine would likely propose a broader ceasefire encompassing energy facilities and naval strikes, though drone attacks were reported from both sides just before negotiations commenced.

Zelensky implored allied countries to exert additional pressure on Russia, stating that “New decisions and new pressure on Moscow are needed to bring an end to these strikes and this war.” Meanwhile, fresh drone attacks resulted in casualties on both sides. Ukrainian forces reported the capture of a small village in Lugansk, marking a rare military achievement amidst ongoing struggles.

As Russia approaches the Saudi negotiations, a warming relationship with Washington under President Trump has emboldened the Kremlin. Peskov remarked on the importance of potential “mutually beneficial cooperation in a wide variety of spheres between our countries,” emphasizing that despite differences, mutual benefits should be preserved.

In conclusion, crucial talks between US and Ukrainian officials are scheduled to occur in Saudi Arabia amid ongoing hostilities from the Russian invasion. While significant hopes for progress have been expressed, the Kremlin warned of complexities and the arduous path towards a truce. As both sides prepare for negotiations, the focus remains on achieving lasting peace and addressing pressing humanitarian issues amid continued violence.

Original Source: www.insidenova.com

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