Ukraine and Russia have negotiated a ceasefire regarding the Black Sea and energy infrastructure, facilitated by US talks in Saudi Arabia. Ukraine’s defense minister confirmed commitments to safe navigation, while both sides agreed on measures to prevent attacks on energy facilities. The agreement is considered a crucial step amid ongoing hostilities.
Ukraine and Russia have reached an agreement on a ceasefire concerning the Black Sea and energy infrastructure, following discussions that included United States officials. The negotiations took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where US representatives met with a Russian delegation to deliberate on a partial ceasefire amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has seen significant hostilities for over three years. The White House also engaged in separate technical consultations with Kyiv during this period.
While direct talks between Ukraine and Russia did not occur, both parties consented to a plan formulated by the United States. The focal point of discussions on Monday revolved around establishing a Black Sea ceasefire, with additional topics concerning territorial claims and ownership of power plants being addressed, as mentioned by US President Donald Trump.
Rustem Umerov, Ukraine’s defense minister, expressed that Ukraine is committed to ensuring safe navigation and eliminating any military use of commercial vessels in the Black Sea. This statement follows reassurances from the White House that Russia is also in favor of maintaining safety in the maritime region.
Senator Grigory Karasin, representing the Russian delegation, characterized the discussions as “intense” yet productive, emphasizing that a broad range of subjects were addressed. He noted, “There was an intense, challenging dialogue, but it was very useful for us and for the Americans.” Umerov further clarified that both nations have consented to develop measures to uphold an agreement barring attacks on energy facilities situated in either Ukraine or Russia.
On a contrasting note, reports from Ukraine indicated an overnight assault involving 139 drones, resulting in injuries to two individuals. Updates regarding this developing situation will continue to be provided as more information becomes available.
In summary, Ukraine and Russia have successfully negotiated a ceasefire agreement regarding the Black Sea and energy infrastructure, facilitated by US diplomacy in Saudi Arabia. The discussions led to commitments from both parties to ensure safety in navigation and refrain from military actions involving commercial vessels. Despite ongoing hostilities, this agreement marks a significant step towards mitigating conflict, though further violence was reported in Ukraine shortly after the negotiations.
Original Source: news.sky.com
