U.S. and Russian negotiators are discussing a partial ceasefire in Ukraine in Saudi Arabia, following earlier talks involving U.S. and Ukrainian officials. The discussions aim to halt long-range attacks on energy facilities and secure shipping in the Black Sea. Despite this diplomatic effort, recent drone strikes by Russia have resulted in fatalities, raising concerns over the ceasefire’s effectiveness.

On Monday, United States and Russian negotiators convened in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential partial ceasefire in Ukraine, as reported by Russian state media. These discussions in Riyadh follow previous negotiations involving U.S. and Ukrainian officials, indicating a collaborative international effort to address the ongoing conflict.

The objective of the negotiations is to establish a temporary pause in long-range attacks on energy facilities and civilian infrastructure. Additionally, the discussions seek to implement a ceasefire in the Black Sea to ensure safe commercial shipping operations amid the conflict.

Last Wednesday, Ukraine and Russia reached a tentative agreement for a limited ceasefire following direct communication between U.S. President Donald Trump and the leaders of both nations. However, the interpretation of this agreement is contested; while the White House claims it encompasses “energy and infrastructure,” the Kremlin asserts it pertains solely to “energy infrastructure.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has advocated for the inclusion of railways and ports in the protection accord.

Despite ongoing diplomatic discussions, Russia conducted drone strikes across Ukraine on Sunday night, resulting in the deaths of at least seven individuals, including a father and his five-year-old daughter in Kyiv. President Zelenskyy emphasized the need for increased pressure on Russia to cease such actions and called for decisive measures from international allies, including the United States and European nations.

Zelenskyy expressed Ukraine’s willingness to accept a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire, a proposal originally presented by Trump. Nevertheless, President Vladimir Putin has attached conditions to any broader truce, such as halting Western military support to Ukraine and suspending Ukraine’s military mobilization, terms that have been outright rejected by Kyiv and its allies.

Steve Witkoff, special envoy for Trump, expressed optimism regarding the negotiations occurring in Saudi Arabia. In an interview on “Fox News Sunday,” he stated, “We expect some real progress at the talks in Saudi Arabia, particularly regarding a Black Sea ceasefire for ships between both countries. From there, you naturally gravitate toward a full-on shooting ceasefire.”

The negotiations between U.S. and Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia signify an important step towards establishing a ceasefire in Ukraine. Although both parties express differing views on the terms, there is potential for progress, especially concerning maritime safety. Nonetheless, ongoing violence, including recent drone strikes, raises concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful resolution amidst conflicting demands.

Original Source: www.newsx.com

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