US and Russian Representatives Initiate Ceasefire Discussions in Saudi Arabia

US and Russian negotiators are discussing a partial ceasefire in Ukraine in Saudi Arabia, following an agreement in principle. The focus is on protecting certain civilian and energy infrastructures amid ongoing drone strikes and differing interpretations of ceasefire terms. International pressure on Russia is being urged by Ukraine amid evolving negotiations.

US and Russian officials convened in Saudi Arabia on Monday to discuss a potential partial ceasefire in Ukraine. This meeting followed prior negotiations between US and Ukrainian representatives, as reported by Russian news outlets. The talks, taking place in Riyadh, aim to establish details regarding a pause in long-range attacks targeting energy facilities and civilian infrastructure, as well as to ensure safe commercial shipping in the Black Sea.

Previously, an agreement in principle for a limited ceasefire had been reached after discussions between US President Donald Trump and the leaders of Ukraine and Russia. However, each party has diverging interpretations of the ceasefire’s terms. The White House contends that “energy and infrastructure” will be targeted for protection, while the Kremlin insists the focus is solely on “energy infrastructure,” with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy advocating for the inclusion of railways and ports.

Following a recent barrage of Russian drone strikes that resulted in the deaths of at least seven individuals, including a child, President Zelenskyy stated, “There must be more pressure on Russia to stop this terror,” calling for support from international allies. He also expressed openness to a full, 30-day ceasefire, which was proposed by Trump. In response, President Putin has conditioned a comprehensive ceasefire on stopping arms shipments to Kyiv and halting Ukraine’s military mobilization, demands that have been firmly rejected by Ukraine and its Western allies.

Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism regarding the negotiations, stating on “Fox News Sunday” that he believes there could be “some real progress” regarding a ceasefire in the Black Sea, paving the way for a more comprehensive ceasefire thereafter.

Negotiations between US and Russian negotiators are underway in Saudi Arabia, focusing on a partial ceasefire in Ukraine. Divergent interpretations of the ceasefire terms persist, especially concerning what constitutes protected targets. The ongoing violence has heightened calls for international pressure on Russia, and there remains potential for further dialogue surrounding a broader ceasefire as negotiations continue.

Original Source: apnews.com