U.S. and Ukrainian officials engaged in technical talks in Saudi Arabia, focusing on a potential partial ceasefire and energy security. Discussions were deemed productive, with emphasis on protecting critical infrastructure. President Zelensky urged the international community for increased pressure on Russia to halt aggressions.

Recent discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian officials took place in Saudi Arabia, focusing on a potential partial ceasefire. These technical talks occurred just before separate meetings were scheduled with both Ukrainian and Russian delegates. Ukraine’s delegation included Umerov and Pavlo Palisa, coordinator from the President’s Office, as indicated by a confidential source to Sky News.

Umerov expressed their commitment to advancing a just peace and enhancing security. He detailed that the agenda encompassed strategies to safeguard energy facilities and key infrastructures. The delegation, comprising energy specialists and military personnel from naval and air sectors, addressed various intricate technical challenges.

After the talks, Umerov highlighted the productivity and focus of the discussions via a Facebook post, although specifics regarding the meeting’s outcomes were not disclosed. He noted, “The conversation was constructive and meaningful — we discussed key issues, including in the energy sector.”

U.S. representatives, utilizing a method referred to as “shuttle diplomacy,” planned to engage separately with Ukrainian and Russian officials. Concurrently, diplomatic discussions with Moscow were also set to occur in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, according to U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff. Notably, Ukraine asserted that no direct communications with Russia would take place in Riyadh.

President Volodymyr Zelensky characterized the discussions between the U.S. and Ukrainian delegations as “constructive and beneficial,” emphasizing that considerable progress had been made on critical matters. He reaffirmed that ongoing collaborative efforts signified a strategic advancement for Ukraine.

Echoing the President’s sentiments, Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak remarked on the focused nature of the discussions, which contributed to Ukraine’s broader strategic objectives. Zelensky also urged the global community to intensify pressure on Russia for a ceasefire, noting the necessity of such actions since March 11, when a proposal for an unconditional ceasefire was presented.

He stated, “Without pressure on Russia, Moscow will continue to treat true diplomacy with contempt and destroy lives.” Zelensky insisted on the importance of compelling President Putin to issue a directive to cease hostilities, asserting that the originator of the conflict must be responsible for its conclusion.

In summary, the recent technical discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia focused on advancing a partial ceasefire and ensuring the protection of vital infrastructures. Despite no direct negotiations occurring between Ukraine and Russia, both parties expressed a commitment to constructive dialogue and strategic progress. President Zelensky’s call for increased international pressure on Russia underscores the urgent need for a cessation of hostilities.

Original Source: ifpnews.com

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