The US-led peace talks began in Saudi Arabia following a significant drone attack on Moscow by Ukraine, where Russia reported intercepting 337 drones. Key figures from the US are engaged in bilateral discussions, while parallel meetings focus on security guarantees among allied nations. The conflict continues to escalate, emphasizing the urgency of resolving hostilities.
Amid escalating tensions in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, peace talks led by the United States commenced in Saudi Arabia following a substantial drone attack on Moscow. This attack, attributed to Ukraine, resulted in the destruction of 337 drones by Russian defenses, with 91 intercepted near Moscow. The discussions in Saudi Arabia mark the first dialogue between Ukraine and the US since a contentious meeting featuring Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky last month.
Leading the Ukrainian peace delegation, Andriy Yermak reported that initial discussions were progressing constructively. Key US figures including Secretary of State Marco Rubio participated, while President Zelensky was absent, attending a separate meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Reports indicate that the US will communicate the discussion outcomes to the Kremlin before the expected visit of Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff to Moscow.
In parallel, army chiefs from over thirty nations convened in Paris to strategize on forming an international force aimed at deterring further Russian hostilities post-ceasefire. Significant topics of concern include troop deployment and military responses to potential ceasefire violations by Russia. Ukrainian officials expressed hesitance in agreeing to terms lacking robust security guarantees.
The drone assault on Moscow led to aerial disruptions, prompting the shutdown of all four of the city’s airports and damage to various infrastructures. Notably, one civilian casualty was reported, along with several injuries from the attacks executed in response to ongoing Russian assaults on Ukraine. Reports also indicated serious infrastructure damage in surrounding regions.
Ahead of the peace talks in Saudi Arabia, Secretary Rubio asserted, “There is no military solution” to the ongoing conflict. The Ukrainian delegation plans to propose a limited ceasefire cover while emphasizing the significance of considering security guarantees and military support options post-resolution. They plan to present offers related to bounce back from previous diplomatic failures, specifically addressing recent tensions following Zelensky’s contentious meeting in Washington.
As the situation evolves, both sides are keen to explore pathways toward a negotiation that aims to conclude this enduring conflict and foster international engagement to safeguard Ukraine’s sovereignty.
In conclusion, the commencement of US-led peace talks following a significant Ukrainian drone strike on Moscow marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. These discussions in Saudi Arabia and the concurrent international military talks reflect a collective effort to outline a strategy for future deterrence and conflict resolution. Understanding Ukraine’s position and addressing security concerns remain crucial elements in the pursuit of a lasting ceasefire and peace settlement.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
