United States and Ukrainian officials have commenced negotiations in Saudi Arabia to discuss protecting energy facilities amidst the ongoing Russian invasion. The discussions include proposals for a possible partial ceasefire, with attendance from military and energy experts. Recent communications have indicated a willingness from Ukraine to pause assaults on Russian infrastructure. Russian representatives will also join the meetings to further facilitate this dialogue.
Recent negotiations in Saudi Arabia have commenced between Ukraine and the United States, aimed at enhancing the protection of energy facilities amid the ongoing Russian invasion, which has now entered its fourth year. Senior Ukrainian diplomats are engaging with their American counterparts to explore the potential for a partial ceasefire and to address the safeguarding of critical infrastructure, as discussions unfold in Riyadh on Sunday.
Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov announced on social media that the talks had officially begun, indicating that Kyiv is committed to following President Zelenskyy’s directives for advancing a just peace and reinforcing security measures. According to the minister, the delegation comprises energy specialists alongside military representatives from naval and air divisions to ensure comprehensive dialogue on security issues.
During a recent phone call with President Donald Trump, President Zelenskyy expressed his acceptance of an unconditional ceasefire proposal from the United States. He reiterated Ukraine’s willingness to pause attacks on Russian energy and civilian sites, although hostilities have persisted, with reports of civilian casualties from recent strikes by both nations.
Originally intended to occur simultaneously to facilitate shuttle diplomacy, the discussions have now been structured sequentially. Prior to the meetings, Trump’s envoy conveyed optimism regarding the prospect of advancing talks between Ukraine and Russia, specifically regarding a ceasefire in the Black Sea area and its implications for broader conflict resolution.
Russian representatives are scheduled to meet with their US counterparts on Monday. Putin’s aide, Yuri Ushakov, confirmed the delegation, which includes prominent officials from Moscow’s international affairs committee and a key advisor from the FSB security service, following discussions with US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.
Earlier discussions held on March 11 between US and Ukrainian diplomats in Saudi Arabia addressed various issues including a mineral deal and the resumption of US military assistance after a pause, which had stemmed from prior disagreements between Trump and Zelenskyy.
The ongoing talks between Ukraine and the United States in Saudi Arabia represent a critical effort to negotiate a partial ceasefire and improve the security of energy facilities amidst ongoing conflict. While recent efforts demonstrate a commitment to peace, the continuity of escalated attacks highlights the complexities involved in reaching a resolution. The involvement of Russian officials in subsequent meetings further underlines the international dimension of these diplomatic discussions, as the situation continues to evolve.
Original Source: www.news18.com
