US and Russia Initiate Negotiations in Riyadh: A Focus on Ceasefire and Oversight Measures
On March 24, US and Russian representatives began negotiations in Riyadh, focusing on achieving a ceasefire in the Black Sea and discussing oversight measures. The meetings follow US consultations with Ukrainian officials and involve senior diplomats from both nations. Despite ongoing military tensions, there are efforts towards confidence-building measures, particularly regarding the return of abducted Ukrainian children.
On March 24, US and Russian negotiators commenced a new round of discussions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This meeting follows consultations between American representatives and the Ukrainian delegation the previous day. Notably, pro-Kremlin media reported that the meeting is closed to the press, as journalists were asked to vacate The Ritz-Carlton hotel, the venue for these negotiations.
The primary objective of the US-Russia talks is to attain a ceasefire in the Black Sea, facilitating unhindered maritime navigation. Following their discussions with Ukraine on March 23, the US delegation is set to engage with Russian representatives. The White House underscores that achieving a ceasefire remains a pivotal focus of these discussions.
Moreover, the agenda includes deliberating on a designated “control line” between the nations. A knowledgeable source elaborated that this involves measures for oversight, peacekeeping, and the stabilization of front lines. Additionally, confidence-building initiatives such as the repatriation of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia are anticipated topics of conversation.
The US delegation is headed by Andrew Peek, Senior Director of the White House National Security Council, alongside Michael Anton, a Senior State Department official. The Russian side is represented by Grigory Karasin, the Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, and General Sergey Beseda, an Advisor with a history at the FSB.
These negotiations follow a thorough five-hour discourse between US and Ukrainian representatives, where Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov characterized their discussions as “constructive and substantive,” emphasizing technical aspects related to the protection of vital infrastructure.
The renewed discussions emerge amidst Donald Trump’s initiative for a 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine is willing to accept if Russia complies. However, the Kremlin has only indicated a temporary pause in assaults on Ukrainian energy facilities, continuing aerial strikes against urban areas, contradicting claims of withdrawal from hostilities. President Zelenskyy remarked that Russia’s actions indicate an intention to prolong the conflict.
In summary, the ongoing talks between US and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia aim primarily to establish a ceasefire in the Black Sea and explore oversight measures between the two nations. The discussions signal important diplomatic efforts in addressing key issues, including the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure. This dialogue occurs against the backdrop of proposed ceasefire conditions, even as tensions remain high due to ongoing military actions.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
