The US and Russia have initiated talks in Riyadh focusing on a ceasefire in Ukraine, particularly in the Black Sea region. These discussions follow a meeting with Ukrainian diplomats and are aimed at curtailing the ongoing conflict. Despite optimistic statements from US officials, the Kremlin maintains a cautious stance regarding quick resolutions, complicating the potential for a lasting agreement.

A United States delegation is scheduled to meet with Russian officials in Riyadh to address a potential ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, specifically focusing on the Black Sea region. These discussions will occur after a meeting with Ukrainian diplomats, as US President Donald Trump emphasizes the urgency for a resolution to the three-year-long war. The talks represent an effort to halt the violence through proposed temporary ceasefire plans, despite continued cross-border attacks.

Initially, the meetings were designed to facilitate shuttle diplomacy, but they have evolved into sequential discussions. The Ukrainian delegation, led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, concluded their talks with US officials late Sunday, characterizing the dialogue as productive and focused on critical issues, including energy. Umerov expressed Ukraine’s commitment to achieving a “just and lasting peace.”

Steve Witkoff, a representative of the Trump administration, expressed optimism about the potential for a significant agreement, particularly regarding a ceasefire concerning Black Sea shipping. He indicated that achieving initial progress could lead to a broader ceasefire resolution. However, the Kremlin remains cautious, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicating that expectations for quick solutions should be tempered.

Challenges persist as President Putin has dismissed the notion of an immediate ceasefire, proposing only limited cessation of attacks on energy infrastructure. Peskov identified the potential reinstatement of the Black Sea grain deal as a primary focus of the discussions, noting Moscow’s withdrawal from the agreement earlier this year due to unmet Western commitments.

As the talks approach, Ukraine is experiencing renewed assaults, with recent drone strikes in Kyiv resulting in civilian casualties, prompting President Zelensky to call for increased pressure on Russia from international allies. Peskov acknowledged the prospect for constructive cooperation between the US and Russia, emphasizing that mutual benefits should not be overlooked despite existing disagreements.

In summary, the US-Russia talks in Riyadh aim to address a Black Sea ceasefire and broader cessation of hostilities in Ukraine amidst ongoing violence. While there is cautious optimism regarding these discussions, particularly concerning energy facilities, significant challenges remain. The Kremlin stresses that any ceasefire agreements must be approached carefully, highlighting the complexities of diplomatic negotiations in the context of ongoing conflict. Furthermore, recent civilian casualties underscore the urgent need for diplomatic interventions to halt hostilities and pave the way for lasting peace.

Original Source: www.france24.com

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