U.S. and Russian officials will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential partial ceasefire in Ukraine following previous discussions with Ukrainian delegates. Both sides have proposed ceasefire plans, but violence continues. Key issues include the revival of the Black Sea grain deal and practical concerns regarding ceasefire implementation, amid escalating military actions.

United States and Russian officials are scheduled to convene in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential partial ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. This meeting follows previous discussions between American and Ukrainian delegates. President Donald Trump is advocating for a swift conclusion to the three-year war and expresses hope that the talks in Riyadh will lead to significant progress in this regard.

Both nations have put forth different proposals for temporary ceasefires; however, cross-border hostilities continue unabated. Initially intended to occur concurrently for shuttle diplomacy, the sessions will be held sequentially. The recent meeting involving Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov and the American delegation concluded late last night, with Mr. Umerov describing the discussions as “productive and focused,” emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to achieving a “just and lasting peace.”

Steve Witkoff, a representative of President Trump, expressed optimism regarding the upcoming discussions, indicating that they could facilitate a comprehensive ceasefire. He anticipated that meaningful advancements would emerge from the Riyadh talks, particularly concerning a ceasefire related to Black Sea ship movements.

While the Kremlin acknowledges the ongoing negotiations, it urges caution regarding expectations for immediate resolution. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that numerous uncertainties regarding the practical implementation of any proposed ceasefire remain. Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed calls for an immediate 30-day full ceasefire, suggesting instead a limited cessation of attacks exclusively on energy sites, recognizing the challenging negotiations ahead.

Peskov also indicated that a central topic in the discussions will be the potential revival of the 2022 Black Sea grain deal, which facilitated safe navigation for Ukrainian agricultural exports. This agreement, terminated by Russia in 2023 due to perceived unmet commitments from the West, is pivotal in the talks.

In anticipation of the negotiations, both nations have executed fresh drone strikes. Tragically, a recent Russian drone attack in Kyiv resulted in civilian casualties, including a five-year-old girl. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called upon international allies to intensify pressure on Russia to halt the aggression and conclude the war.

As Russia approaches the Saudi negotiations, its recent warming of relations with the U.S. under President Trump appears to have bolstered Kremlin confidence. Peskov emphasized the potential for mutually advantageous cooperation between the two nations, acknowledging that while differences exist, the potential for collaborative benefits should not be overlooked.

In conclusion, discussions between U.S. and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia aim to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, focusing on a potential partial ceasefire and the revival of the Black Sea grain deal. While both sides exhibit different approaches and face challenges in negotiations, the commitment to diplomacy is evident. The urgent need for an end to hostilities remains a priority, even amidst ongoing military actions and significant civilian impacts.

Original Source: www.rte.ie

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