On March 24, Russia and the U.S. held a 12-hour negotiation session in Riyadh, focusing on a possible ceasefire in the Black Sea and military activity cessation. The meeting was closed to journalists, and discussions followed a prior U.S.-Ukrainian meeting, with a lack of progress on a ceasefire evident amidst ongoing military tensions.

On March 24, delegations from Russia and the United States concluded a marathon 12-hour negotiation session in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, comprising three breaks. This meeting followed U.S.-Ukrainian discussions held the previous day, aimed at addressing a potential ceasefire in the Black Sea region and seeking an overarching cessation of military activities.

The negotiations occurred under a closed format, with journalists prohibited from attending, as reported by the Ukrainian media outlet Suspilne. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, “The matter of the Black Sea Initiative and everything related to the initiative’s renewal are on the agenda today.” Notably, Moscow had unilaterally exited the Black Sea Grain Initiative in 2023, while Ukraine successfully reopened its shipping corridor through various military strategies against Russian naval forces.

Leading the U.S. delegation was Andrew Peek from the National Security Council, accompanied by Michael Anton of the State Department. Reports indicate that the Russian delegation included Grigory Karasin, Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, and Sergei Beseda, an advisor to the FSB’s Director.

This diplomatic effort precedes expected discussions between U.S. officials and Ukraine focused on achieving a longer-term peace strategy, amidst ongoing initiatives by President Donald Trump to influence a ceasefire and broader peace agreement in Ukraine. Despite Trump’s discussions with both President Putin and President Zelensky, there has yet to be an implementation of a ceasefire.

While Kyiv supported a mutual suspension of energy attacks, it has accused Russia of continuing hostilities. The U.S. and Ukraine previously advocated for a comprehensive ceasefire, which Russia rejected unless it included specific conditions concerning foreign military aid to Ukraine that limited its defensive capabilities.

The recent 12-hour negotiations in Riyadh between the Russian and U.S. delegations underline the complexity of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Despite discussions focusing on the potential for a ceasefire and military cessation, the lack of tangible outcomes emphasizes the challenges facing diplomatic efforts in the region. Both countries will continue to engage in future talks, highlighting the need for continued dialogue.

Original Source: news.az

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