American and Russian teams are set to resume talks in Riyadh to pursue a ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict, focusing on energy strikes. Concerns about misleading narratives from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff have emerged, prompting Ukrainian criticism. The Kremlin highlights the difficulties of future negotiations, amidst ongoing military confrontations.
American and Russian officials are scheduled to reconvene in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, focusing on achieving a ceasefire and pursuing a peace deal to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. A significant topic for discussion is anticipated to be a temporary halt to strikes on energy infrastructure, with both President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy having suggested their approval of such an initiative in principle.
As reported by Russia’s state-run news agency Tass, the talks commenced behind closed doors in Riyadh. Steve Witkoff, former Middle East envoy under President Trump, expressed optimism about the negotiations, emphasizing that peace emerges from communication. He noted, “I’m not sure how anyone would expect an end to a conflict when you’re not communicating.”
Prior to the U.S.-Russia meeting, American and Ukrainian delegations met in Riyadh, where Zelenskyy received a briefing on the discussions. While acknowledging that they were productive, he stressed the necessity for Putin to issue a definitive order to cease attacks on Ukraine, stating that those who instigated the war should also halt it.
Witkoff’s comments over the weekend raised concerns, suggesting potential alignment with false narratives regarding Russia’s claims in Ukraine. He referred to Russian-speaking populations in regions like Donetsk and Luhansk, incorrectly framing referenda conducted in those areas as legitimate, despite international consensus deeming them fraudulent. In contrast, former Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed U.S. non-recognition of Russian claims to annexed Ukrainian territories.
Witkoff also highlighted a seemingly amicable relationship between Trump and Putin, suggesting that communication reestablishes connections with leaders perceived as adversarial. His lack of condemnation regarding Putin elicited criticism from Ukrainian officials, with Oleksandr Merezhko questioning Witkoff’s stance and urging Trump to disavow his remarks, which were termed “dangerous.”
The Kremlin acknowledged the upcoming negotiations’ challenges, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov remarking that they are merely at the beginning of this journey. Meanwhile, escalating tensions were evident as Ukraine reported significant drone attacks; Russia engaged in extensive drone strikes, with many intercepted by Ukrainian defenses.
The article outlines the ongoing negotiations between U.S. and Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the discussions aimed at establishing a ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Concerns over misleading narratives regarding Russian territorial claims are raised, alongside criticism of statements made by Steve Witkoff, raising alarm in Ukraine regarding the U.S. approach. As negotiations advance, both nations face escalating military actions, indicating a precarious situation ahead.
Original Source: abc7ny.com
