Peace talks between the U.S. and Russia regarding Ukraine commenced in Saudi Arabia, following positive engagements from Ukrainian officials. Focused on establishing a ceasefire in the Black Sea, key discussions involve verifying agreements and managing territorial disputes. Despite optimistic outlooks, ongoing violence complicates the pursuit of peace.

The peace discussions between the United States and Russia, aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, commenced on Monday in Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed satisfaction with a recent meeting his delegation had with an American team in Riyadh, describing it as “quite useful.”

Zelenskyy emphasized the need for Russian President Vladimir Putin to issue a genuine order to cease hostilities, stating, “the one who brought this war must be the one to take it back.” The U.S. delegation, headed by Andrew Peek of the National Security Council and Michael Anton from the State Department, will engage with Russian representatives, including Grigory Karasin and Sergei Beseda.

The focus of the negotiations is a ceasefire in the Black Sea region, as indicated by U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. Future discussions will address ceasefire verification, peacekeeping contingents, and territorial ownership. Steve Witkoff, Special Envoy under President Donald Trump, expressed skepticism regarding Putin’s ambitions in Europe, suggesting, “I just don’t see that he wants to take all of Europe.”

Witkoff anticipates significant progress in the talks, particularly concerning a potential ceasefire on Black Sea shipping, which could lead to a broader ceasefire agreement. However, the backdrop of violence was starkly illustrated by a recent extensive drone attack from Russia that targeted Kyiv and other cities in Ukraine, underscoring the challenges ahead before a peace accord can be established.

The ongoing peace talks in Saudi Arabia signify a critical step towards potentially resolving the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Despite the constructive dialogue reported by both sides, particularly regarding a ceasefire in the Black Sea, significant challenges remain, as evidenced by the recent drone attacks. Continued discussions will be crucial in determining the feasibility of a comprehensive peace settlement.

Original Source: www.wfiwradio.com

Related posts:

U.S. and Russia Initiate Peace Talks in Saudi Arabia Regarding Ukraine Conflict U.S.-Russia Peace Talks Commence in Saudi Arabia Amid Ongoing Tensions U.S. Envoy Witkoff Optimistic About Ukraine Talks and Ceasefire Progress Ceasefire Talks Initiated in Saudi Arabia Amid Continued Russian Offensive