Ukrainian and Russian officials are in U.S.-mediated talks in Riyadh aimed at negotiating a limited cease-fire and halting strikes on energy infrastructure. Discussions are focused on safety in the Black Sea and restoring a previous grain deal. However, significant territorial disputes and demands from Russia complicate the negotiations, with skepticism remaining about the feasibility of a lasting cease-fire.

The recent U.S.-mediated talks in Riyadh between Ukrainian and Russian representatives aim to negotiate a potential cease-fire and address the ongoing hostilities in the conflict. On Tuesday, Ukrainian and American officials engaged in discussions, following similar lengthy negotiations involving Russian delegates, focusing on a temporary halt to strikes on energy infrastructure, especially in the Black Sea.

Additionally, the agenda of the Riyadh meetings included the safety of shipping routes and the restoration of a grain deal from 2022. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov indicated that discussions largely revolved around these issues, while Dmitri S. Peskov of the Kremlin labeled the talks as “technical” without disclosing further details. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky suggested that a third party, possibly the United States, should monitor any cease-fire agreement.

The negotiations face significant hurdles, as Russia maintains stringent demands, insisting on territorial control and preventing Ukraine’s NATO membership, which Ukraine firmly opposes. The Russian negotiation team, led by Grigory B. Karasin and Sergey O. Beseda, brings controversial figures to the discussions, while Ukraine’s delegation under Mr. Umerov and Mr. Palisa focuses on addressing these contentious issues.

Pursuing a cease-fire remains difficult, as President Putin articulated conditions for a truce during prior discussions, including calls for halting military aid to Ukraine. The U.S. government reiterated its commitment to continuing support for Ukraine despite Russian demands, with differing positions complicating the negotiation landscape. Ukrainian officials assert their resolve to maintain national sovereignty and reject Russian control over occupied territories.

Looking ahead, Mr. Witkoff indicated the possibility of meetings between U.S. leaders and Russian counterparts in Saudi Arabia. However, analysts express skepticism about the prospects of lasting agreements, given past failures and the ongoing military readiness of both nations. The deep divide in their positions on core issues significantly complicates the path to a durable resolution without further escalation of hostilities.

The U.S.-mediated dialogues between Ukraine and Russia in Riyadh underscore the complexities facing both nations in their quest for a cease-fire. With significant disagreements on territorial sovereignty and military presence, the road to peace remains fraught with challenges. Efforts to mediate a limited truce must contend with substantial military and diplomatic obstacles, raising doubts regarding the stability of any agreements reached.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com

Related posts:

Ongoing Ceasefire Negotiations in Ukraine: A Complex Dialogue in Riyadh Ceasefire Negotiations in Ukraine: Progress Amid Persistent Challenges Ukraine Launches Drone Attack on Russia Ahead of Key U.S. Talks in Saudi Arabia U.S. and Russia Engage in Ceasefire Negotiations Amid Ongoing Conflict