Negotiations in Saudi Arabia aimed at establishing a ceasefire in Ukraine have entered a third day, involving American, Russian, and Ukrainian officials. Despite no direct discussions between Russia and Ukraine, the meetings focus on achieving a partial ceasefire, with challenges arising from differing interpretations of terms. Current military actions complicate the ceasefire effort, highlighting the urgent humanitarian situation in Ukraine.

Negotiations for a ceasefire in Ukraine have progressed into their third day in Saudi Arabia. The talks, involving American, Russian, and Ukrainian representatives, resumed on Tuesday, building on discussions that began on Sunday. While these meetings seek to establish a potential ceasefire, there have been no direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine as of yet.

According to a Kremlin official, the deliberations in Riyadh are expected to lead to additional dialogue between Washington and Moscow, yet no definitive plans have emerged. Despite initial agreements on a 30-day ceasefire, ongoing attacks from both sides complicate the situation, with differing interpretations of the ceasefire’s parameters.

Both parties have expressed variations in their expectations for a partial ceasefire, with the White House advocating for a cessation of assaults on “energy and infrastructure,” while the Kremlin prefers to focus narrowly on “energy infrastructure.” Nevertheless, there seems to be mutual interest in achieving safe commercial shipping in the Black Sea, although no formal agreements have been finalized.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov noted discussions about improving shipping safety in the Black Sea, a crucial trade route for both nations. Furthermore, he mentioned Russia’s willingness to reinstate a deal from 2022 that permitted Ukrainian grain shipments to areas facing food insecurity, which was facilitated by the UN and Turkey.

Serhii Leshchenko, an advisor to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, confirmed that pertinent discussions regarding shipping security and other infrastructure were part of talks in Riyadh. He stated Ukraine’s readiness to endorse diplomatic initiatives aimed at pressing Russia to conclude the conflict.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov further emphasized that while the outcomes of the US-Russia talks were being analyzed, there would be no release of detailed information to the public. He indicated that while direct communications between President Donald Trump and President Vladimir Putin are not scheduled, they can be arranged if necessary.

Senior Russian lawmaker Grigory Karasin described the talks as constructive, despite the challenges. He acknowledged that although Moscow’s and Washington’s views do not always align, cooperation is essential for resolving the conflict, paving the way for potential ongoing discussions between expertise from both sides.

In a related note, the situation in Ukraine remains dire. Reports indicate a Russian missile strike in the city of Sumy, injuring 101 individuals, including children. Attack impacts spread across multiple regions of Ukraine, further complicating efforts for a ceasefire as both sides persist in their military operations.

In summary, the ongoing negotiations in Saudi Arabia for a ceasefire in Ukraine reflect a challenging landscape, characterized by differing interpretations between Russia and Ukraine regarding ceasefire terms. Although discussions have not yet involved direct talks between the two nations, there is cautious optimism surrounding aspects such as safe shipping in the Black Sea. The humanitarian situation in Ukraine continues to worsen, underscoring the urgent need for diplomatic resolutions to end hostilities.

Original Source: www.newarab.com

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