Negotiations in Saudi Arabia aimed at securing a ceasefire in Ukraine took place from March 23 to March 25, involving separate discussions between U.S. officials and Ukrainian and Russian delegations. While no joint statement was produced, key issues discussed included energy infrastructure and maritime security in the Black Sea. The U.S. assessed positive progress towards a ceasefire, anticipating further announcements soon.

Recent negotiations in Saudi Arabia focused on establishing a ceasefire in Ukraine, occurring between March 23 and March 25. The United States engaged in separate discussions with both Ukrainian and Russian delegations. Despite the lack of a joint statement, key highlights of the talks were shared by the involved parties, indicating a critical stage in ongoing efforts to resolve the conflict.

The discussions featured two consultation rounds with Ukraine on March 23 and 25, and an extensive 12-hour meeting with the Russian delegation on March 24. Notable figures included Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, senior U.S. officials Andrew Pick and Michael Anton, and Russian representatives such as Grigory Karasin and Sergey Beseda. Critical topics included potential ceasefire proposals and securing maritime safety in the Black Sea.

From Ukraine’s perspective, Minister Umerov emphasized energy sector concerns during the initial talks and the importance of Black Sea port security. Advisor Serhiy Leshchenko mentioned that Ukraine, with its maritime dominance, could ensure security if Russia exhibited goodwill. A follow-up meeting occurred to address U.S.-Russian proposals requiring Ukrainian input.

Conversely, Russian representatives revealed that a joint statement was not achieved due to Ukraine’s position. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed a lack of a trilateral meeting with Ukraine and reported ongoing analysis of the discussions in Moscow and Washington. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov asserted Russia’s commitment to restoring safe navigation in the Black Sea without ambiguity regarding its conditions.

The U.S. has yet to issue an official evaluation, though reports suggest favorable progress in the ceasefire discussions. Sources indicate that a positive outcome is anticipated shortly, potentially concerning a joint statement. Furthermore, U.S. authorities believe Ukraine and Russia are closer to achieving a ceasefire than ever before, with further talks planned between U.S. and Russian leaders.

In conclusion, the recent negotiations in Saudi Arabia marked a significant phase in the pursuit of a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. While direct results remain unannounced, both parties engaged extensively on critical issues such as energy security and maritime safety. Moving forward, the dialogues underscore hopeful progress towards peace, highlighting the complexity and importance of future consultations.

Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua

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