US and Ukraine Engage in Productive Talks on Ceasefire in Saudi Arabia
US and Ukrainian officials engaged in “productive” talks in Saudi Arabia aimed at de-escalating the war with Russia, with discussions focusing on a ceasefire. While proposing different plans, attacks continue from both sides. Optimism exists for a Black Sea ceasefire, but the Kremlin warns of challenging negotiations ahead.
On March 23, US and Ukrainian officials concluded purposeful discussions in Saudi Arabia aimed at de-escalating the ongoing conflict with Russia, which is set to engage in separate discussions with American representatives. US President Donald Trump advocates for a swift resolution to the three-year war, noting that these negotiations could potentially serve as a pathway to a resolution, albeit with the Kremlin cautioning about challenging negotiations ahead.
While both parties have proposed differing plans for temporary ceasefires, hostilities persist without interruption. Initially intended to facilitate shuttle diplomacy, the technical-level talks concerning a partial truce are now occurring sequentially, rather than simultaneously as planned. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov stated that their discussions were constructive, emphasizing a commitment to achieving a “just and lasting peace.”
In an address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted Russia’s role in prolonging the war, urging for a direct cessation of hostilities from President Putin. The United States is expected to meet with Russian officials following the Ukrainian discussions, with optimism expressed by Trump envoy Steve Witkoff regarding progress toward a ceasefire, particularly concerning Black Sea shipping.
However, the Kremlin tempered expectations for an immediate resolution, confirming that significant questions remain regarding the implementation of a ceasefire. President Putin has dismissed calls for a complete and immediate cessation of violence, suggesting instead a halt only to attacks on energy infrastructure.
The dialogues are largely centered on potentially reviving a 2022 Black Sea grain agreement that enabled safe passage for Ukrainian agricultural exports. Following Russia’s withdrawal from this deal earlier in 2023, there have been discussions to renegotiate the terms with a focus on mutual benefit.
In the lead-up to negotiations, both sides engaged in drone strikes, resulting in civilian casualties, including three deaths from a Russian drone attack in Kyiv. The Ukrainian military also reported a limited territorial gain in the Lugansk region. Zelensky called upon allied nations to intensify pressure on Russia to cease hostilities, reflecting a continued urgency for peace amid ongoing violence.
The recent talks in Saudi Arabia between US and Ukrainian officials mark a significant step toward addressing the conflict with Russia. Despite ongoing hostilities and differing proposals for ceasefires, there is cautious optimism for future progress, particularly regarding the Black Sea grain deal. The international community’s involvement remains crucial as both Ukraine and the US seek a resolution, while the Kremlin emphasizes the complexity of negotiations ahead.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
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