Negotiations for a limited ceasefire in Ukraine have entered a third day in Saudi Arabia, marked by continued conflict and various interpretations of ceasefire terms. While discussions on safe shipping in the Black Sea show promise, significant disagreements remain. A recent missile strike in Sumy has raised injuries, illustrating the urgent need for a resolution.

Negotiations for a ceasefire in Ukraine have entered their third day in Saudi Arabia, focusing on achieving a partial pause in the ongoing conflict. Despite both sides having initially agreed to a limited ceasefire, attacks with drones and missiles continue. Disagreements persist over the definitions of the ceasefire, specifically concerning targeted strikes, following discussions involving U.S. President Donald Trump with Ukrainian and Russian leaders.

The White House indicated that a partial ceasefire would cease attacks on energy and infrastructure, while Moscow’s stance was more restricted, focusing primarily on “energy infrastructure.” However, there seems to be a consensus regarding securing safe commercial shipping in the Black Sea, a critical route for both nations. No specific agreements have emerged yet from these discussions.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov highlighted that the delegations discussed issues related to safe shipping in the Black Sea, an essential corridor for trade. Additionally, he mentioned that Moscow is willing to revisit a 2022 deal enabling Ukraine to ship grain to nations grappling with hunger, a deal halted previously under specific conditions.

Serhii Leshchenko, an advisor to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasized that the U.S.-Ukraine talks on shipping security and infrastructure are ongoing, with Ukraine prepared to use diplomacy to exert pressure on Russia to conclude the war.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted that results from the U.S.-Russia discussions are being reviewed but disclosed no concrete future plans for public announcements. While expectations for continued discussions remain, no imminent conversations between President Trump and President Vladimir Putin have been organized.

Senior Russian lawmaker Grigory Karasin described the negotiations as constructive despite the differing positions of the U.S. and Russia. He mentioned the potential for further collaboration between expert groups to address the conflict.

Concurrently, a Russian missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Sumy resulted in injuries to 101 individuals, including 23 children, highlighting the ongoing violence. Additional attacks in various regions left multiple individuals injured, as Russian forces carried out extensive strikes overnight, including the use of drones and ballistic missiles.

In summary, the ongoing negotiations in Saudi Arabia have highlighted the complexities of achieving a ceasefire in Ukraine amidst persistent violence. Both sides face significant challenges in reconciling their definitions of a ceasefire, and while discussions about shipping safety have garnered some agreement, broader resolutions remain elusive. Continued diplomatic efforts and the involvement of international entities are crucial in addressing the conflict effectively. The recent missile strikes underscore the urgent need for a durable ceasefire to prevent further casualties and suffering.

Original Source: m.economictimes.com

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