U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators are in Riyadh aiming for an immediate partial ceasefire in Ukraine, followed by a comprehensive peace agreement. Despite optimism from some U.S. officials, skepticism exists from the Kremlin alongside continuing violence, leaving the outcome of talks uncertain.

Negotiators from the United States and Ukraine convened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday to engage in talks aimed at facilitating an immediate partial ceasefire in Ukraine, followed by a broader peace agreement. The discussions included separate meetings with Russian officials to explore potential avenues for de-escalation in the ongoing conflict.

The outcome of these Riyadh negotiations remains uncertain. Steve Witkoff, President Trump’s envoy, expressed optimism about achieving progress, stating, “I feel that he (Putin) wants peace.” In contrast, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov tempered expectations, noting that the discussions were only in their initial stages.

The urgency for a ceasefire is heightened following recent attacks in Kyiv, which left three individuals dead, including a young girl. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the need for decisive action from Putin, declaring, “The one who brought this war must take it away.”

However, Putin has indicated that a ceasefire would be conditioned upon numerous preconditions, demonstrating a lack of urgency on the Kremlin’s part. The Riyadh talks commenced behind closed doors, led by Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, with a focus on protecting energy infrastructure and discussing Black Sea shipping routes critical for grain exports.

Destructive attacks on each other’s infrastructure have continued, with Moscow targeting electricity supply in Ukraine and Kyiv executing successful drone strikes against Russian oil facilities. The repercussions of this conflict have resulted in significant casualties on both sides, leading to calls for an expedient resolution to avoid further devastation.

Amidst Ukraine’s aim for a swift resolution, the U.S. remains careful in its approach. While Ukraine has accepted a proposed comprehensive 30-day ceasefire, there is minimal public pressure from the Trump administration on Russia to comply. Instead, Witkoff’s comments suggested alignment with a pro-Russia sentiment, which raised concerns in European circles regarding the future of military support for Ukraine.

In summary, the U.S. and Ukraine’s discussions in Riyadh aim to establish a ceasefire amid ongoing hostilities with Russia. The talks highlight the complexities of the situation, characterized by differing viewpoints among key stakeholders. As both sides continue to face substantial losses, the urgency for a peaceful resolution becomes increasingly critical, though progress remains heavily contingent on the Kremlin’s willingness to negotiate seriously.

Original Source: www.bbc.com

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