Russia-US Talks Conclude in Saudi Arabia on Ukraine Conflict

Russia and the US concluded 12 hours of discussions in Saudi Arabia regarding Ukraine, aiming to establish a maritime ceasefire and protect commercial shipping. A joint statement is expected to follow negotiations that aim to address key issues, including which targets should remain off-limits in the conflict.

Negotiations between Russia and the United States concerning Ukraine concluded after approximately 12 hours of discussions in Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that a joint statement detailing the outcomes of these negotiations is anticipated to be released shortly. The talks were significant, following previous discussions held between the US and Ukraine, amidst heightened efforts by President Donald Trump to resolve the ongoing conflict that has persisted for three years.

Leading the US delegation were Andrew Peek, a senior director at the White House National Security Council, and Michael Anton, a senior official from the State Department. The primary objective of these discussions was to establish a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea to facilitate unobstructed shipping operations. On the Russian side, notable representatives included Grigory Karasin, the chair of the Federation Council’s Foreign Affairs Committee, and Sergei Beseda, an adviser within the Federal Security Service.

Despite reaching a preliminary agreement for a limited 30-day ceasefire last week, both parties continue to engage in hostilities, utilizing drones and missile attacks. Key issues remain unresolved, particularly concerning which targets should be designated as off-limits to strike. The White House has suggested that this includes “energy and infrastructure,” while the Kremlin has narrowed this focus specifically to “energy infrastructure.” President Zelensky of Ukraine has expressed the need to further protect infrastructures such as railways and ports.

The discussions held in Riyadh anticipated addressing these contentious issues alongside proposals for a cessation of attacks in the Black Sea, aimed at ensuring the safety of commercial shipping. Following the conclusion of the talks, Russian state media confirmed that they had officially ended. President Trump also remarked that territorial lines and potential US ownership of a significant nuclear power facility in southern Ukraine were included in the deliberations.

In summary, the Russia-US talks in Saudi Arabia were pivotal in addressing ongoing issues related to the Ukraine conflict. Despite prolonged negotiations lasting over 12 hours, certain fundamental differences remain unresolved, particularly regarding ceasefire conditions. The expected joint statement may clarify the outcomes of these discussions, which aim to facilitate maritime security and protect critical infrastructure amidst continuing hostilities.

Original Source: www.eurasiareview.com