U.S. and Russian Negotiators Commence Ceasefire Discussions in Saudi Arabia
U.S. and Russian negotiators have begun talks in Saudi Arabia to establish a partial ceasefire in Ukraine. This initiative follows earlier discussions involving U.S. and Ukrainian representatives. Key issues include halting attacks on energy and civilian infrastructures, especially in the Black Sea, although differing interpretations of protection targets persist.
Negotiators from the United States and Russia commenced discussions on a partial ceasefire in Ukraine on Monday in Saudi Arabia. This meeting followed a separate round of talks involving U.S. and Ukrainian representatives. The negotiations aim to establish details regarding a temporary halt to long-range attacks on civilian infrastructure and energy facilities, in addition to ensuring safe commercial shipping in the Black Sea.
Reports from Russian news agencies, Tass and RIA-Novosti, indicate that while Ukraine and Russia have reached a preliminary agreement on a limited ceasefire, discrepancies remain regarding the specific targets to be protected. The White House asserts that the ceasefire will encompass both energy and infrastructure, while the Kremlin focuses solely on energy infrastructure, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy advocating for the protection of railways and ports.
Over the weekend, Russia intensified its attacks with drone strikes across Ukraine, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least seven individuals, including a father and his young daughter in Kyiv. President Zelenskyy called for increased international pressure on Russia to terminate these assaults, emphasizing the collective responsibility of Ukraine’s allies, including the U.S. and European nations.
President Zelenskyy expressed willingness to consider a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire as proposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump. In contrast, President Vladimir Putin has stipulated that any complete ceasefire must be contingent upon halting arms supplies to Ukraine and suspending its military mobilization, requests that face resolute opposition from Ukraine and its Western partners.
In remarks to “Fox News Sunday,” Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy, expressed optimism, anticipating tangible progress from the meetings in Saudi Arabia, especially concerning a ceasefire in the Black Sea, which could lay the groundwork for a broader cessation of hostilities.
The meeting between U.S. and Russian negotiators in Saudi Arabia marks a significant step towards a potential ceasefire in Ukraine, despite existing disagreements on the agreement’s parameters. Both parties have acknowledged the need for a pause in hostilities, and international pressure remains crucial in resolving ongoing violence. The outlook suggests that continued dialogue may lead to a more comprehensive agreement, subject to significant political conditions.
Original Source: www.seattletimes.com
