USA Initiates Ceasefire Talks with Russia in Saudi Arabia
The United States has initiated talks with Russia in Saudi Arabia, focusing on a limited ceasefire regarding Ukraine. The Ukrainian delegation reported positive outcomes, particularly regarding energy sector discussions. Key topics include safeguarding infrastructures and the challenge of implementing a ceasefire amidst ongoing attacks.
The United States has initiated a new round of discussions regarding a limited ceasefire with Russia, following a meeting with Ukrainian representatives in Saudi Arabia. These talks aim to explore potential paths to peace in Ukraine through shuttle diplomacy, contingent upon the outcomes of separate negotiations with both Moscow and Kiev, as reported by the “New York Times.”
Ukraine’s initial assessment of the discussions held on Sunday evening was positive. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umjerov highlighted the constructive nature of the talks, particularly regarding critical issues in the energy sector. The Ukrainian delegation, operating under the mandate of President Volodymyr Zelensky, seeks to establish an “honorable and lasting peace” for Ukraine and Europe.
The Saudi negotiations will prioritize steps toward a ceasefire, with a focus on renouncing attacks on energy infrastructure. While Ukraine aims to ensure protection for additional critical infrastructures, such a limited ceasefire had received tentative approval during earlier communications between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, though implementation details remain undefined. Recently, both nations have engaged in significant drone attacks.
According to Umjerov, the immediate concerns center around technical matters, such as proposals to safeguard energy infrastructure. Ukraine’s delegation includes experts in energy as well as military personnel. Concurrently, Russia is expected to discuss initiatives for secure shipping in the Black Sea during the negotiations
Ukraine’s President Zelensky expressed his optimism regarding constructive discussions but emphasized the necessity for Putin to order a cessation of attacks. The Ukrainian delegation is represented by Umjerov, while Russia’s delegation is headed by foreign policy expert Georgi Karassin and intelligence officer Sergei Besseda. The United States has deployed multiple teams, including special envoy Keith Kellogg and national security advisor Mike Waltz.
Zelensky accused Russia of prolonging the conflict and highlighted that the war resulted from Russian aggression. He referenced the ongoing drone attacks and insisted that without pressure on Russia, real diplomatic efforts would continue to be undermined. U.S. President Trump expressed a desire to expedite the conclusion of the war, while U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff observed potential openness to peace from Putin, though Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov advised caution in expectations regarding a ceasefire.
The Kremlin has shown reluctance toward a ceasefire, citing concerns over enforceability along the entire front. Additionally, it has stipulated conditions that preclude further Western arms and intelligence support to Ukraine. Just prior to the exploratory peace talks, a notable drone attack by Russia in Kiev resulted in three fatalities, including that of a five-year-old child.
In summary, the United States has commenced new negotiations in Saudi Arabia aimed at achieving a limited ceasefire with Russia, following positive feedback from Ukraine’s delegation. The focus is on safeguarding energy infrastructures and potentially halting further attacks. Despite the cautious optimism expressed by various parties, significant challenges remain, particularly due to the differing positions of the Kremlin and the conditions for a ceasefire that they have established.
Original Source: www.bluewin.ch
