Russian negotiators expressed satisfaction after talks with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant initial move toward resolving the Ukraine conflict. Discussions focused on establishing a ceasefire, while both sides expressed constructive intent amidst ongoing negotiations with international partners.

Russian negotiators have expressed satisfaction regarding recent discussions with U.S. representatives in Saudi Arabia, representing a crucial step towards resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Grigory Karasin, a key Russian negotiator, noted a sense of constructive dialogue, essential for progress. This meeting, held in Riyadh on Monday, is set to include additional states and the United Nations in future discussions. However, Karasin did not disclose specific results from the talks.

A joint statement from both the White House and the Kremlin was anticipated after the teams engaged in more than 12 hours of negotiations the previous day. The private meeting took place at the Ritz Carlton hotel, centering on establishing a ceasefire as the initial measure to conclude over three years of hostilities in Ukraine. The Russian team, under Karasin’s leadership and accompanied by Sergey Beseda, a senior intelligence official closely associated with President Vladimir Putin, participated in these talks.

Ukraine has approved a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire proposal put forth by U.S. President Donald Trump. In contrast, President Putin has outlined various preconditions, including the cessation of Western military aid to Ukraine. The negotiations have also considered smaller measures, such as a ceasefire in the Black Sea aimed at safeguarding shipping routes and commitments to avoid attacks on energy infrastructure. Both Russia and Ukraine have reached a preliminary agreement on suspending strikes targeting energy facilities, although implementation is pending.

Prior to this event, U.S. representatives initiated conversations with a Ukrainian negotiating team on Sunday, which Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov characterized as constructive and informative.

The recent discussions in Saudi Arabia between Russian negotiators and U.S. representatives signify a hopeful step towards ending the conflict in Ukraine. While the Russians have expressed optimism about the dialogue, specific results remain undisclosed. The emphasis has been placed on a ceasefire, with both nations indicating an interest in protecting critical infrastructure. Continued negotiations with broader international involvement could pave the way for a lasting resolution.

Original Source: businessday.ng

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