Ukrainian and U.S. officials will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss a possible ceasefire with Russia, part of ongoing diplomatic efforts by President Trump. Led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, the Ukrainian delegation aims to explore ceasefire modalities. However, continued military strikes underscore the complex reality of the conflict, with hopes for a broad ceasefire by April 20.
Ukrainian and U.S. officials are expected to convene in Saudi Arabia on Sunday to discuss a potential partial ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia. This meeting is part of a broader diplomatic push led by U.S. President Donald Trump to conclude the ongoing conflict that has persisted for three years. Following this meeting, U.S. and Russian delegations will engage in talks on Monday.
This gathering is preceded by previous discussions in Saudi Arabia involving U.S.-Russian talks and subsequent U.S.-Ukrainian meetings, during which Ukraine accepted a proposal for a 30-day truce. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov will lead the delegation, with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stating that this leadership will enable Kyiv to respond ‘very quickly and very substantively’.
Despite optimism regarding quick resolutions, Ukrainian officials have characterized the discussions as primarily technical. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi mentioned that the focus would be on clarifying the modalities and nuances related to potential ceasefire regimes and their monitoring and control.
Recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin accepted Trump’s proposal to halt attacks on energy infrastructure for a period of 30 days; however, this arrangement did not result in a broader ceasefire sought by the U.S. and supported by Kyiv. President Trump remarked that discussions aimed at preventing escalation in the Ukraine-Russia conflict are ‘somewhat under control’.
The U.S. is seeking to establish a comprehensive ceasefire within weeks, aspiring to conclude an agreement by April 20, as reported by Bloomberg News. Additionally, Russian and U.S. experts are set to discuss maritime safety in the Black Sea during the upcoming Monday meeting.
Amid ongoing diplomatic maneuvering, both Russia and Ukraine report continued military operations, with Russian advances noted in eastern Ukraine. A recent drone assault on Kyiv resulted in casualties, including three fatalities, one of whom was a child. Concurrently, Russian officials announced the destruction of 59 Ukrainian drones targeting southwestern regions, resulting in one death in Rostov.
In conclusion, the anticipated talks between Ukrainian and U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia mark a significant step in the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the Ukraine-Russia conflict. While discussions aim to clarify ceasefire modalities, the situation remains complex with continued military activity reported on both sides. President Trump’s intervention and recent agreements highlight the urgency for a more comprehensive resolution to restore peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
