U.S. and Russian negotiators are meeting in Saudi Arabia to discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine, following talks between U.S. and Ukraine officials. Despite a preliminary agreement, attacks continue, highlighting tensions surrounding interpretations of the ceasefire terms. Expectations for progress remain, while both sides continue to blame each other for violations.

Negotiators from the United States and Russia have convened in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential ceasefire and peace agreement aimed at halting the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has persisted for three years. This meeting follows prior discussions between U.S. representatives and Ukrainian officials in Riyadh. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted that his team is collaborating constructively with partners, while emphasizing the urgent necessity for President Putin to genuinely authorize a cessation of hostilities.

Despite an initial agreement on a ceasefire in principle, both Russian and Ukrainian forces have continued their attacks, utilizing drones and missiles against one another. The White House has indicated that any partial ceasefire should specifically address “energy and infrastructure,” although President Putin’s interpretation centered mainly on energy infrastructure. President Zelenskyy has expressed the need to ensure the protection of various infrastructures, including railways and ports.

In an interview, Steve Witkoff, special envoy during the Trump administration, asserted that meaningful progress is anticipated from the discussions. He suggested that a temporary halt to hostilities in the Black Sea could logically evolve into a comprehensive ceasefire. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov revealed that Russian forces are upholding Putin’s directive to suspend attacks on energy facilities for a month. He accused Ukraine of undermining this partial ceasefire by targeting Russian energy assets, a claim the Ukrainian military has denied, attributing responsibility to Russian forces instead.

The ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and Russia in Saudi Arabia signify a critical effort to establish a ceasefire in the war in Ukraine. While preliminary agreements exist, hostilities continue unabated. Both leaders express differing interpretations of what a ceasefire entails, highlighting tensions that remain prevalent. The success of these discussions will depend on the willingness of both parties to genuinely commit to a halt in violence and to negotiate effectively around key issues like infrastructure protection.

Original Source: wjla.com

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