The U.S. is set to meet Ukrainian officials in Riyadh following talks with Russia focused on a partial ceasefire. Discussions center on ending attacks on Black Sea shipping and ensuring the safety of Ukrainian ports. Despite the dialogue, there is skepticism about achieving breakthroughs amid ongoing violence and mutual accusations of attacks on energy infrastructure.

The United States is scheduled to engage in further discussions with Ukrainian representatives following dialogue with Russian negotiators about a prospective partial ceasefire in Ukraine. These meetings are taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as U.S. officials focus on ending attacks affecting Black Sea shipping while pushing for a more comprehensive ceasefire agreement to resolve the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

A senior Ukrainian official confirmed that U.S. and Ukrainian teams would reconvene on Monday. Prior to this, U.S. officials had met with the Ukrainian delegation on Sunday, concentrating on measures to safeguard civilian and energy infrastructure. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, who led the talks, remarked on the productive nature of these discussions.

Ukraine is particularly keen to ensure the safety of its Black Sea ports from Russian assaults. Reports indicate a strong desire from Ukraine to halt shelling of strategic ports, including Odesa, Kherson, and Mykolaiv. Observers noted that Ukraine first suggested a ceasefire targeting air and sea threats in response to its maritime concerns.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged ongoing discussions concerning the potential revival of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which initially allowed the export of Ukrainian grain. However, Russia withdrew from the agreement in 2023, alleging that the West failed to keep their promises regarding sanctions relief on Russian agricultural exports.

Despite ongoing negotiations, analysts predict no significant breakthroughs during these talks; both U.S. and Russian officials are expected to address specific demands. Reports indicate that the Russian team engaged in extended discussions with U.S. representatives focused on a possible 30-day ceasefire that concerns energy and infrastructure, as well as the Black Sea initiative.

This narrow focus contrasts with an earlier proposal by the U.S. calling for a broad 30-day ceasefire, which was agreed upon in principle by Presidents Putin and Zelenskyy after discussions with U.S. officials. Nonetheless, mutual accusations have arisen regarding attacks on energy infrastructure on both sides, with recent assaults prompting further tensions.

Amidst these negotiations, ongoing violence persists as Russia continued aerial assaults on Kyiv, further complicating the dialogue’s context. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister has emphasized the necessity for military pressure in conjunction with diplomatic efforts, highlighting the importance of holding Russia accountable for its aggressive actions.

The Russian Defence Ministry has reported that its forces successfully intercepted numerous Ukrainian drones and projected its own narratives about alleged Ukrainian attacks in various regions, indicating that military exchanges are far from ceasing during these diplomatic discussions.

In conclusion, the renewed talks between U.S. and Ukrainian officials follow discussions with Russian negotiators aimed at securing a partial ceasefire in Ukraine. With ongoing discussions concerning Black Sea shipping and safety for Ukrainian ports, the situation remains dynamic amid persistent violence. Analysts remain skeptical regarding any significant outcomes from the latest meetings, while both sides continue to assert their respective positions and grievances regarding military actions.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com

Related posts:

U.S.-Ukraine Negotiations in Saudi Arabia Focus on Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Violence U.S.-Ukraine Ceasefire Talks in Saudi Arabia Amidst Ongoing Violence and Challenges Kremlin Anticipates Challenging Negotiations in Saudi Arabia over Ukraine Conflict U.S. and Russia Engage in Ceasefire Talks in Saudi Arabia Regarding Ukraine Conflict