Ceasefire negotiations are taking place in Saudi Arabia, led by a U.S. delegation, aiming for a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea. Discussions will also include establishing a line of control and confidence-building measures amidst intensified Russian attacks on Ukraine. U.S. officials express concern over the ongoing violence while promoting diplomatic engagement.
Negotiations for a potential partial ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine commenced in Saudi Arabia, as announced by the Kremlin. These discussions, led by a U.S. delegation, started on March 24, 2025, following prior talks between U.S. and Ukrainian representatives. The primary objective of these negotiations is to establish a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, according to the White House, thereby facilitating unimpeded shipping operations.
White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz stated that discussions would also center on establishing a “line of control” between Russia and Ukraine, which involves verification measures and peacekeeping to maintain the current boundary situation. Furthermore, the talks will explore “confidence-building measures,” including the repatriation of Ukrainian children reportedly taken by Russia.
U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff criticized British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s proposals for a military coalition of European and NATO nations to support Ukraine, describing them as a mixture of posturing. Witkoff, who leads the U.S. ceasefire dialogues, implied that the notion of a unified European front, akin to historical wartime leadership, is overly simplistic. He reassured that NATO exists as a deterrent against Russian expansionism, unlike during World War II.
In addition to ceasefire discussions, Russia has intensified its military assaults on Ukraine, particularly targeting Kyiv with drone strikes, which resulted in infrastructure damage and civilian casualties. Ukrainian defense forces reported downing 57 of 99 drones amid a series of assaults over the weekend, which tragically caused seven fatalities across various regions, marking yet another surge in violence in the conflict-torn nation.
In summary, ceasefire negotiations between the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine are underway in Saudi Arabia, focusing on establishing a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea and discussions involving peacekeeping measures. However, these diplomatic efforts take place amidst an escalation in military activity, underscoring the volatility of the situation and the complex dynamics between the involved parties. U.S. officials continue to navigate a delicate balance between advocating for peace while addressing ongoing hostilities on the ground.
Original Source: news.sky.com
