The U.S. has begun separate peace talks with Ukraine and Russia in Riyadh, emphasizing critical infrastructure protection. Ukrainian Defense Minister Umerov leads his nation’s delegation, which includes military and energy experts. Concurrently, national dialogue regarding Russian perspectives is occurring amongst U.S. officials, with implications for ongoing negotiations.
The United States has initiated separate discussions with Ukraine and Russia in Riyadh, aiming to facilitate a peace agreement amid ongoing tensions. The meetings come as part of President Donald Trump’s administration’s efforts to broker a resolution to the conflict. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed the Ukrainian delegation’s presence, which includes military advisers and experts in energy infrastructure and security.
Minister Umerov stated, “We have started the meeting with the American team in Riyadh,” focusing on critical infrastructure protection following accusations of Russian violations related to energy attacks. The agenda reportedly addresses complex technical issues involving both military and energy specialists. If progress is achieved, additional discussions may be held in the following days.
The talks coincide with comments from Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, who described Russian President Vladimir Putin as “super smart.” Witkoff also reiterated Russian narratives regarding occupied Ukrainian territories desiring to join Russia.
This marks the second round of U.S.-Ukrainian talks, following earlier discussions in Jeddah. Russian representatives include career diplomat Grigory Karasin and Sergei Beseda, an adviser to the Russian Federal Security Service. Trump recently stated that he believes he possesses the capability to halt Putin’s aggression, highlighting the significant human cost of the conflict on both sides.
The U.S. has commenced critical negotiations with Ukraine and Russia in Riyadh, focusing on peace and security. Ukrainian officials emphasize the importance of addressing energy infrastructure vulnerabilities, while U.S. representatives express their intentions to mediate effectively. The backdrop of these talks includes ongoing complexities surrounding the conflict and varying perspectives on leadership and territorial claims, underscoring the multifaceted nature of international diplomacy involved in the situation.
Original Source: www.upi.com