US and Russian officials are negotiating ceasefire terms in Saudi Arabia, focusing on a Black Sea maritime ceasefire. Led by Andrew Peek and Michael Anton, the discussions follow prior US meetings with Ukrainian officials. The outcome remains uncertain amid skepticism over Russia’s intent to concede. Key topics include safety measures for shipping and returning abducted Ukrainian children.
On Monday, officials from the United States and Russia convened in Saudi Arabia to foster discussions aiming at a ceasefire agreement. The United States is particularly focused on establishing a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea prior to reaching an extensive treaty. These discussions followed a meeting between US representatives and Ukrainian officials the day prior, in an effort led by President Donald Trump to resolve the ongoing conflict, which has persisted for three years.
The US delegation is directed by Andrew Peek from the National Security Council and Michael Anton from the State Department. The objective is to facilitate a maritime ceasefire that enhances the safety of shipping routes in the Black Sea, an area that has not seen intense military activities in recent months. Russia is represented by Grigory Karasin and Sergei Beseda, both influential figures in Russian diplomacy and security.
President Trump has reiterated his desire to conclude the war in Ukraine, expressing satisfaction with the progress of the talks and acknowledging President Putin’s involvement. Despite these discussions, skepticism remains concerning Russia’s willingness to concede meaningful terms, as Putin maintains maximalist demands, including Ukraine’s withdrawal from certain territories and the renouncement of NATO ambitions.
White House national security adviser Mike Waltz highlighted that delegates from the US, Russia, and Ukraine were participating in the same venue in Riyadh. In addition to the Black Sea ceasefire, the agenda includes the delineation of control lines, verification measures, and confidence-building initiatives such as the return of Ukrainian children taken by Russia. The Kremlin views these discussions primarily as an opportunity to explore navigation safety in the Black Sea.
Turkey and the United Nations have previously facilitated the Black Sea Grain Initiative, enabling the export of substantial amounts of Ukrainian grain amidst the ongoing conflict. Although Russia withdrew from this agreement in 2023 due to obstacles affecting its agricultural exports, it still manages to navigate grain supply routes effectively. The Ukrainian defense minister emphasized proposals aimed at safeguarding energy infrastructure during the US-Ukraine discussions.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, who previously met with Putin, mitigated concerns regarding a potential aggressive expansion by Russia, stating, “I just don’t see that he wants to take all of Europe.” Witkoff expressed confidence that Putin desires peace, signifying a shift from historical patterns.
The recent US-Russia ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia represent a crucial step towards resolving the protracted conflict in Ukraine. With a focus on establishing a Black Sea ceasefire and addressing territorial control measures, discussions underscore the complexities involved in achieving lasting peace. Continued skepticism regarding Russia’s willingness to make concessions remains, alongside efforts to safeguard regional navigation and infrastructure. The outcome of these talks may shape future relations and security dynamics in Eastern Europe.
Original Source: www.sbs.com.au
