US and Russian delegations have begun negotiations in Saudi Arabia, following a meeting with Ukraine. Although aiming for peace, no major developments are expected. Discussions focus on ceasefire terms and Russia’s demands, with US officials encouraging constructive interim agreements.

Delegations from the United States and Russia commenced a new round of negotiations in Saudi Arabia on Monday, immediately following a fruitful meeting between American officials and Ukrainian representatives. The discussions aim to advance efforts toward a ceasefire and strategies to conclude the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, significant breakthroughs are not anticipated during these talks, which will focus on continuing the shuttle diplomacy of bilateral negotiations between the US and both the Ukrainian and Russian parties.

President Donald Trump expressed optimism regarding a forthcoming revenue-sharing agreement concerning critical minerals from Ukraine. He stated, “We have made a deal on rare earths. We will sign it soon. Right now, we are talking about territories.” This sentiment emerges amidst ongoing discussions in the region and highlights the economic repercussions of the conflict.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova tempered expectations for the peace talks, indicating there are no anticipations for immediate progress. Representatives will primarily work on delineating Russia’s demands for a potential peace agreement. Officials expect to discuss key items, including the cessation of strikes on energy facilities and civilian infrastructure, alongside issues concerning security in the Black Sea.

Negotiations kicked off early in the morning at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Riyadh, and the meeting is currently private, having excluded press access. The US delegation is composed of notable figures, including Michael Anton and aides to US Special Representative Keith Kellogg, while the Russian side features Sen. Grigory Karasin and Sergey Beseda, adviser to the director of the Federal Security Service.

Kyiv’s defense minister, Rustem Umerov, described the initial discussions as “productive and focused”; however, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the necessity for Russia to cease hostilities. This statement underscores the urgent need for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.

In summary, the ongoing US-Russia negotiations in Saudi Arabia follow a recent productive meeting with Ukrainian officials, aiming to address critical issues surrounding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Although the talks are not expected to yield immediate breakthroughs, discussions on crucial matters such as ceasefires and diplomatic agreements are in progress. The complexities of these negotiations highlight the challenging dynamics influencing peace efforts.

Original Source: www.kyivpost.com

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