A U.S. delegation led by Steve Witkoff is in Riyadh to negotiate a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. Initial talks between U.S. envoy Keith Kellog and Ukraine’s Defense Minister were deemed productive. However, significant disparities in expectations remain, especially following recent violence and Witkoff’s controversial statements regarding Russian territorial claims.

A United States delegation headed by Steve Witkoff has initiated talks with Russian negotiators in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in pursuit of a ceasefire regarding the ongoing conflict involving Russia and Ukraine. This dialogue follows a productive discussion in Kyiv, between U.S. envoy Keith Kellog and Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, raising hopes for a temporary cessation of hostilities lasting 30 days, although substantial disagreements persist among the parties.

The negotiations come amidst a backdrop of escalating violence, as Russian drone attacks resulted infatalities in Ukraine over the weekend. Moscow has leveled accusations against Ukraine for targeting its energy facilities despite purportedly offering to pause assaults on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The delegation in Riyadh features experienced Kremlin figures, including Grigory Karasin and Sergey Beseda, with the latter known for his nationalist views and support of Russia’s aggressive actions since early 2022.

The credibility of the U.S. delegation has been strained due to Witkoff’s previous statements expressing apparent affinity for some of President Putin’s expansionist objectives. Witkoff discussed the annexation of four Ukrainian regions, labeling them as “Russian speaking,” and referred to referendums held in those areas as indicative of local support for Russian governance, despite international condemnation of their legitimacy.

Moscow has stipulated that any ceasefire must ensure Ukraine does not utilize that period to regroup or resupply its military forces. Additionally, Moscow insists that Ukraine must abandon any aspirations to join NATO. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized the necessity for Putin, as the instigator of the conflict, to assume responsibility for its resolution.

In summary, the United States is actively engaged in negotiations aimed at establishing a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine amid significant regional tensions. Despite hopes for a temporary halt in hostilities following productive meetings, considerable expectations differ among the involved parties. Trust issues have arisen, particularly given Witkoff’s remarks, while both sides maintain firm stances regarding territorial and military concerns. The situation remains fluid, and developments will continue to unfold in the wake of these discussions.

Original Source: www.wral.com

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