U.S. and Russian Negotiators Initiate Ceasefire Discussions in Saudi Arabia

U.S. and Russian negotiators are in Saudi Arabia discussing a potential partial ceasefire in Ukraine, with goals to pause attacks on energy facilities and ensure Black Sea safety. A limited ceasefire was tentatively agreed upon, but disputes remain over its scope. Meanwhile, Russia continues drone strikes. Zelenskyy has called for increased pressure on Russia and expressed willingness for a longer ceasefire, while Putin demands conditions that Ukraine has rejected.

On Monday, U.S. and Russian negotiators engaged in talks in Saudi Arabia regarding a potential partial ceasefire in Ukraine. These discussions, reportedly taking place in Riyadh, follow previous meetings between representatives from the U.S. and Ukraine focusing on the conflict.

The primary objective of the discussions is to establish a temporary cessation of long-range attacks aimed at energy facilities and civilian infrastructures. Furthermore, negotiators are contemplating a stop to hostilities in the Black Sea to ensure the security of commercial shipping routes.

Last Wednesday, Ukraine and Russia tentatively agreed to a limited ceasefire after U.S. President Donald Trump had discussions with the leaders of both countries. However, the terms of the agreement have sparked contention, as the White House claimed the ceasefire encompasses “energy and infrastructure,” while the Kremlin contends it pertains solely to “energy infrastructure.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has advocated for the inclusion of railways and ports in the ceasefire agreement as well.

Amidst these negotiations, Russia conducted drone strikes across Ukraine on Sunday night, resulting in the death of at least seven individuals, including a father and his young daughter in Kyiv. In response, Zelenskyy stated, “There must be more pressure on Russia to stop this terror,” urging international allies to take decisive action.

President Zelenskyy has conveyed Ukraine’s readiness to accept a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire, as proposed by Trump. Conversely, President Vladimir Putin has placed conditions on any broader truce, demanding a halt to Western arms supplies and a suspension of Ukraine’s military mobilization, both of which are unacceptable to Kyiv and its allies.

Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy, expressed hope regarding the discussions in Saudi Arabia, indicating on “Fox News Sunday” that, “We expect some real progress at the talks in Saudi Arabia, particularly regarding a Black Sea ceasefire for ships between both countries. From there, you naturally gravitate toward a full-on shooting ceasefire.”

The ongoing negotiations between U.S. and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia strive to establish a partial ceasefire in Ukraine amidst continued military actions. While Zelenskyy remains open to a pause in hostilities, significant disputes over the scope and terms of the ceasefire exist. International pressure on Russia and unified support for Ukraine’s security are critical in the pursuit of a lasting peace agreement.

Original Source: www.newsx.com