A meeting between U.S. and Russian delegations began in Saudi Arabia to discuss a ceasefire, primarily focusing on naval truce in the Black Sea to ensure free navigation. The American delegation is led by Andrew Peek, while Russia is represented by Grigory Karasin. Access to the meeting is restricted, and prior interactions involving Ukrainian representatives have also occurred.

On March 24, a meeting between U.S. and Russian delegations commenced in Saudi Arabia to negotiate a ceasefire. Reports from a Suspilne correspondent and the Russian media outlet TASS confirmed the arrival of the Russian delegation in Riyadh. Media coverage is restricted, as journalists were instructed to vacate the venue ahead of the discussions.

The White House has articulated that the primary objective of the talks is to establish a naval truce in the Black Sea, ensuring free navigation, as reported by Reuters. The American delegation is led by Andrew Peek, a senior director at the National Security Council, alongside Michael Anton of the State Department. Russia’s representation includes Grigory Karasin, chair of the Federation Council’s foreign affairs committee, and Sergei Beseda, an advisor to the Federal Security Service.

Leading up to this meeting, Yuri Ushakov, an aide to the Russian leader, announced on March 20 that the discussions in Riyadh were confirmed for March 24. Additionally, Special Representative Keith Kellogg revealed plans for indirect negotiations involving U.S., Ukrainian, and Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia. Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Heorhiy Tykhyi indicated that while the Ukrainian delegation would engage with the U.S., direct talks with the Russians were not on the agenda. On March 23, prior to the U.S.-Russia meeting, Ukrainian and American officials convened to address security concerns regarding energy and infrastructure.

The commencement of U.S.-Russian talks in Saudi Arabia signals an important step aimed at achieving a ceasefire and enhancing maritime security in the Black Sea. With a focus on free navigation and discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian delegations, the outcomes of these meetings may significantly impact the ongoing geopolitical landscape. The restricted nature of the talks indicates their sensitive nature as both nations seek to navigate complex diplomatic relations.

Original Source: global.espreso.tv

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