The Kremlin foresees challenging negotiations in Saudi Arabia regarding the Ukraine conflict, citing ongoing violence despite discussions for ceasefires. Both sides plan to address key issues, such as the Black Sea grain deal, as deadly attacks continue ahead of talks. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy calls for increased international pressure on Russia to cease its aggressions.
The Kremlin has indicated expectations of challenging negotiations concerning the Ukraine conflict, noting that discussions are in their early stages. As delegations from Russia and Ukraine prepare to engage with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia, the Kremlin spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, emphasized that significant hurdles remain regarding the implementation of any potential ceasefire, stating, “We are only at the beginning of this path.”
While the two sides have suggested different ceasefire plans, violence has persisted, as evidenced by a recent Russian airstrike in Kyiv that resulted in civilian casualties, including children. President Vladimir Putin has dismissed calls for an immediate 30-day ceasefire, favoring a pause in attacks only on energy sites.
The negotiations scheduled in Saudi Arabia may unfold sequentially rather than concurrently. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a meeting between Ukrainian and U.S. delegations, signaling a potential shift in the negotiation format without elaborating further.
A principal topic of discussion for the Russian delegation will be the possible restoration of the Black Sea grain deal, crucial for the safe export of Ukrainian agricultural products. Peskov noted that Russia aims to address the “nuances” associated with this arrangement, especially after Moscow’s withdrawal from the deal in 2023 over sanctions disputes.
As negotiations approach, tensions remain high; both sides conducted drone strikes shortly before the talks commenced, highlighting the ongoing hostilities. Ukrainian officials reported fatalities from these strikes in Kyiv while calling for renewed international pressure on Russia to cease its aggression.
Zelenskyy urged allies for strategic support to end the conflict, insisting that “new decisions and new pressure on Moscow are needed to bring an end to these strikes and this war.” Meanwhile, Yermak, an aide to Zelenskyy, condemned the continuation of Russian attacks on civilians as unacceptable and demanded a halt.
In conclusion, as negotiations begin in Saudi Arabia, the Kremlin anticipates difficult discussions regarding the Ukraine conflict. Current violence undermines peace efforts, while the focus on economic agreements, such as the Black Sea grain deal, reflects the multifaceted nature of the talks. Both Ukrainian and Russian officials have elusive terms for potential ceasefires as they navigate their respective national interests amidst ongoing hostilities.
Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com
