Ceasefire talks in the Russia-Ukraine war are set for Sunday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as announced by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. The U.S. delegation, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, aims to discuss terms—including ceasefires on energy targets. Although recent attacks by Russia on Ukrainian infrastructure have been reported, Washington advocates for a 30-day ceasefire. Putin’s agreement to halt strikes appears contingent upon Ukraine’s allies ending military aid.
Discussions regarding a ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict are scheduled to take place on Sunday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as confirmed by Steve Witkoff, a special envoy from President Donald Trump. Witkoff made this announcement during an interview with Fox News following a comprehensive phone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The U.S. delegation, which will be led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, is set to engage in discussions; however, the parties they will negotiate with have not been disclosed. Witkoff indicated that there is an understanding regarding a ceasefire concerning the energy infrastructure and Black Sea targets, expressing optimism that Ukraine will also concur with these terms.
On Wednesday, Ukraine reported that Russia dismissed the U.S.-proposed ceasefire initiative, highlighting a series of aerial assaults on civilian sites just hours after Moscow had purportedly committed to limiting its attacks on energy resources. Washington advocates for a comprehensive, 30-day ceasefire as an initial measure aimed at establishing a broader resolution to the prolonged conflict.
In a conversation with Trump, President Putin stated that any ceasefire agreement hinges on Ukraine’s allies ceasing all military support. The Kremlin has asserted that Putin has commanded his military to abstain from strikes against Ukrainian energy sites for a duration of 30 days. Notably, Witkoff reaffirmed that the ceasefire proposal encompasses both energy infrastructures and general infrastructure targets.
Witkoff praised President Putin for his efforts during the recent call, suggesting progress towards a final peace agreement. He expressed belief that consensus on energy and infrastructure issues, as well as Black Sea targets, signals that “it’s a relatively short distance to a full ceasefire from there.”
The upcoming ceasefire discussions in Saudi Arabia represent a critical opportunity for de-escalation in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. While U.S. representatives express cautious optimism regarding potential agreements on energy and infrastructure ceasefires, recent actions by Russia imply a complex negotiating landscape. Both parties must navigate significant diplomatic challenges, particularly regarding military support from Ukraine’s allies. The outcome of these discussions may shape future diplomatic relations and the possibility of lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
