U.S. and Russian Negotiators Convene in Saudi Arabia for Ceasefire Talks
U.S. and Russian negotiators met in Saudi Arabia to discuss a partial ceasefire in Ukraine, aiming to halt attacks on energy facilities and civilian infrastructure. Despite an initial agreement in principle, conflicting interpretations of target protections complicate negotiations. Violence persists, with Zelenskyy calling for more pressure on Russia while expressing willingness for a broad ceasefire. The situation remains tense as diplomatic dialogues continue amidst attacks affecting civilians.
On March 11, U.S. and Russian negotiators convened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for discussions focused on a potential partial ceasefire in Ukraine. This meeting followed earlier negotiations between U.S. and Ukrainian representatives. The discussions aim to establish a pause in hostilities, particularly concerning long-range attacks on energy facilities and to protect civilian infrastructure and Black Sea shipping routes.
In principle, Ukraine and Russia agreed to a limited ceasefire following a conversation between U.S. President Donald Trump and the leaders of both countries. However, significant discrepancies in understanding the terms of the ceasefire persist, particularly regarding which targets would be included in the ceasefire. The White House cited “energy and infrastructure,” while the Kremlin only acknowledged “energy infrastructure.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed a desire for broader protection encompassing railways and ports. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated that only energy facilities would be included in the ceasefire agreement, accusing Ukraine of interfering by conducting a military strike on Russian territory. Ukraine’s military leadership countered these claims, attributing the attack to Russian shelling instead.
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, violence continues, with recent drone strikes by Russia resulting in casualties including a father and his five-year-old daughter in Kyiv. President Zelenskyy laments the absence of a comprehensive ceasefire proposal and insists that external pressure on Russia is essential to halt their aggression.
Although Zelenskyy has indicated openness to Trump’s suggestion for a full 30-day ceasefire, Russia’s conditions—specifically halting arms supplies to Ukraine and freezing military mobilization—remain unacceptable to Ukraine and its allies. Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism for progress in the Saudi talks, particularly regarding a ceasefire affecting Black Sea shipping.
Zelenskyy characterized prior talks as more technical, welcoming representatives from Ukraine’s military and energy sectors. He emphasized the necessity for decisive action from Putin to cease the attacks, highlighting that the responsibility for the war lies with the aggressor. Furthermore, Ukrzaliznytsia, Ukraine’s state railway operator, reported a significant cyber attack affecting their online services, although train operations remained unaffected. Russian drone strikes persist, with reported injuries among civilians in various regions due to the attacks.
In summary, the U.S. and Russian negotiators’ talks in Saudi Arabia mark an important effort towards establishing a partial ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Nevertheless, substantial differences remain regarding the scope and terms of the ceasefire. Continued pressure on Russia is crucial for any movement towards a peaceful resolution, as both parties contend with ongoing hostilities and civilian casualties. Diplomatic efforts must be sustained as the situation evolves.
Original Source: whdh.com
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