U.S. and Russia Resume Ceasefire Talks Amidst Rising Ukraine Tensions
U.S. and Russian diplomats are meeting in Saudi Arabia to negotiate a ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict, following U.S.-Ukraine talks. President Zelenskyy emphasizes the need for genuine commitment from Putin to end hostilities. While a ceasefire was tentatively agreed upon, attacks continue, complicating peace efforts. Optimism persists, despite accusations exchanged between both nations.
U.S. and Russian officials are set to convene in Saudi Arabia as the call for a ceasefire in the ongoing three-year conflict in Ukraine intensifies. This meeting follows prior discussions between U.S. representatives and Ukrainian officials in Riyadh, indicating a unified approach towards peace negotiations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need for Russian President Vladimir Putin to genuinely commit to halting hostilities, stating, “the one who brought this war must be the one to take it back.”
Despite a recent agreement in principle between Moscow and Kyiv for a ceasefire, both parties continue retaliatory attacks utilizing drones and missiles. The White House has indicated that any partial ceasefire would specifically address energy and infrastructure, though President Putin has emphasized a more limited focus on energy infrastructure. Zelenskyy has advocated for broader protections, extending to railways and ports.
Steve Witkoff, special envoy under former President Trump, expressed optimism regarding upcoming discussions, suggesting that a temporary cessation of hostilities in the Black Sea could lead to a comprehensive ceasefire. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that the Russian military is adhering to Putin’s directive to suspend attacks on energy facilities for a month, while accusing Ukraine of violating the ceasefire by targeting Russian energy sites. Ukraine’s General Staff, in response, has dismissed Peskov’s charges and attributed culpability for the attacks to Russia, calling the claims “absurd.”
The ongoing negotiations between U.S. and Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia reflect an urgent search for a ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict. Although preliminary agreements have been reached, hostilities persist, complicating peace efforts. Key themes of the discussions include the protection of energy and infrastructure, with crucial roles played by both nations’ leadership. Continued dialogue remains vital to mitigate escalating tensions and achieve lasting peace.
Original Source: wset.com
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