US-Russia Ceasefire Talks Progress in Saudi Arabia Amid Continued Tensions

US and Russian officials are in talks in Saudi Arabia regarding a partial ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict, with varying ceasefire plans proposed. Meetings followed discussions between US and Ukrainian delegates. Despite optimism from some US officials, the Kremlin has tempered expectations, noting numerous unresolved questions ahead.

US and Russian officials commenced discussions in Saudi Arabia regarding a partial ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. This meeting follows recent talks between representatives from Washington and Kyiv, as US President Donald Trump advocates for a prompt resolution to the three-year-long war. Both parties have submitted varying proposals for temporary ceasefires, even as cross-border attacks persist.

Initially, the meetings were intended to occur concurrently to facilitate shuttle diplomacy between the US and both delegations. However, the discussions have been restructured to occur sequentially. According to Russian news agency TASS, the US-Russian talks began around 0730 GMT following the conclusion of the US-Ukrainian meeting led by Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov.

Umerov characterized the discussions as “productive and focused,” emphasizing that the agenda addressed critical issues, including energy concerns. The minister expressed Ukraine’s commitment to achieving a “just and lasting peace.” Furthermore, Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism about reaching an agreement that could lead to a more comprehensive ceasefire.

Despite this optimism, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov urged caution, stating that the negotiations are merely beginning and noted numerous questions surrounding the execution of any potential ceasefire. Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed a joint call from the US and Ukraine for an immediate 30-day ceasefire, instead suggesting a targeted halt on attacks against energy infrastructure.

Peskov indicated that a significant focus of the discussions would involve potentially resuming the 2022 Black Sea grain agreement, which allowed safe navigation for Ukrainian agricultural exports. The Kremlin’s position follows its withdrawal from the agreement in 2023, citing the West’s failure to fulfill obligations regarding sanctions on Russian agricultural exports.

Leading up to the negotiations, both sides engaged in new drone strikes, with Ukrainian officials reporting civilian casualties, including the death of a five-year-old girl and her father in an overnight Russian attack in Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called upon allies to amplify pressure on Russia, emphasizing the necessity for decisive measures to conclude the conflict.

Moscow approaches the Saudi discussions following a thaw in relations with Washington under Trump’s administration, which has strengthened confidence in the Kremlin. Peskov articulated the potential for cooperative ventures across various sectors, affirming the necessity of mutual benefits even amidst disagreements.

The ongoing US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia represent a significant effort towards achieving a partial ceasefire in the Ukraine war. While both sides express varying levels of optimism and propose different ceasefire plans, substantial challenges remain. The focus on restoring the Black Sea grain deal and addressing energy concerns showcases the complexity of negotiations. As the conflict continues, both Kyiv and Moscow remain engaged in military actions, highlighting the pressing need for sustained dialogue and international pressure.

Original Source: risingnepaldaily.com