U.S. and Russian negotiators have initiated talks in Saudi Arabia for a partial ceasefire in Ukraine, following earlier discussions. Discrepancies in target exemptions exist between the U.S. and Russia. Ukrainian President Zelensky advocates for international pressure to cease strikes and emphasizes the need for protection of key infrastructures during negotiations.
Negotiators from the United States and Russia have commenced discussions in Riyadh regarding a partial ceasefire in Ukraine. This meeting came shortly after U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators engaged in their own talks. Initial reports from Russian news sources, including Tass and Ria-Novosti, confirmed the start of these negotiations.
On Wednesday, Ukraine and Russia reached an agreement in principle for a limited ceasefire following discussions between U.S. President Donald Trump and the leaders of both nations. However, there appears to be a divergence in interpretations regarding the targets exempted from attack, with the White House suggesting coverage of “energy and infrastructure,” while the Kremlin focused more on “energy infrastructure.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his desire for the protection of railways and ports under the ceasefire terms. Still, amidst ongoing violence, including a deadly drone attack in Kyiv that resulted in innocent fatalities, Zelensky emphasized the need for heightened pressure on Russia to cease hostilities. He remarked that this responsibility lies with international partners, including the U.S. and Europe.
Steve Witkoff, U.S. Special Envoy, articulated optimism regarding progress at the talks, particularly concerning a Black Sea ceasefire for shipping activities. Additionally, he noted that successful negotiations could lead to an overarching cessation of hostilities.
Zelensky noted that the recent discussions in Riyadh were approached with a more technical perspective, involving Ukraine’s military, energy ministry, and diplomatic representatives. He commended the constructive nature of the dialogues while underscoring that President Putin must be compelled to order an end to attacks, asserting that the instigator of the war must also retract it.
In summary, the recent negotiations between U.S. and Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia mark an important step toward establishing a partial ceasefire in Ukraine. Despite the agreement in principle, differences in the scope of protected targets remain. President Zelensky calls for further international pressure on Russia to halt ongoing hostilities, while progress is anticipated in future discussions regarding both military and critical infrastructure protection.
Original Source: guernseypress.com
