Ukrainian and U.S. officials will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential ceasefire in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Defensive Minister Rustem Umerov will lead the Ukrainian delegation, with discussions focusing on ceasefire modalities. Diplomatic efforts continue amid ongoing military actions, including recent attacks on Kyiv that have caused civilian casualties.
Ukrainian and U.S. officials are set to convene in Saudi Arabia on Sunday to discuss a potential partial ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia. This meeting is a part of a larger diplomatic initiative by President Donald Trump aimed at concluding three years of ongoing conflict. The discussions will precede a scheduled meeting between U.S. and Russian delegations on Monday.
The previous talks in Saudi Arabia involved initial meetings between U.S. and Russian officials, followed by discussions with Ukraine, during which Kyiv accepted a proposal for a 30-day truce. Led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, the Ukrainian delegation aims to act swiftly and effectively, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Nevertheless, Ukrainian representatives view the meeting as predominantly technical in nature.
Heorhii Tykhyi, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian foreign ministry, indicated that the talks will focus on clarifying the details of ceasefire arrangements, including monitoring and control mechanisms. Recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to halt attacks on each other’s energy infrastructure for 30 days, fulfilling part of Trump’s proposal, though a broader ceasefire agreement remains elusive.
President Trump asserted on Saturday that measures to mitigate the escalation of the Ukraine-Russia conflict are “somewhat under control,” expressing hope for a comprehensive ceasefire within weeks, aiming for an agreement by April 20. U.S. and Russian experts will address maritime safety in the Black Sea during their discussions in Saudi Arabia.
Despite the diplomatic efforts, reports indicate ongoing strikes from both sides, with Russian forces maintaining a gradual advance in eastern Ukraine. A recent large-scale drone attack on Kyiv resulted in fatalities, including that of a young child, while Russian defenses reportedly intercepted numerous Ukrainian drones targeting southwestern regions, leading to casualties there as well.
In conclusion, U.S. and Ukrainian officials are engaging in crucial discussions in Saudi Arabia regarding a potential ceasefire with Russia, amidst ongoing military challenges on the ground. The negotiations aim to clarify ceasefire frameworks and monitoring processes, amidst a backdrop of continued conflict. Efforts by President Trump to maintain control over the situation signify the urgency of reaching a broad truce, although substantial obstacles persist.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
