U.S. and Russian negotiators convene in Saudi Arabia to discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine. Conversations reveal a push for both sides to halt hostilities, although attacks continue. Zelenskyy stresses the need for Putin to take responsibility for the war’s cessation. Existing agreements focus on energy infrastructure, with optimism expressed regarding potential progress in negotiations.
U.S. and Russian negotiators are scheduled to convene in Saudi Arabia to pursue a ceasefire and peace deal aimed at pausing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has persisted for three years. This meeting follows prior discussions between the U.S. and Ukraine in Riyadh, signaling an urgency to stabilize the region amid escalating tensions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shared insights on the recent negotiations, highlighting the constructive efforts taking place. He emphasized the necessity for President Vladimir Putin to issue a genuine order to cease strikes, as he believes that the party responsible for initiating the conflict should be accountable for its resolution.
Despite an agreement “in principle” for a ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv, both sides continue to engage in hostile actions, including drone and missile attacks. The White House suggested that a partial ceasefire should encompass energy and infrastructure, although President Putin clarified that the focus remains primarily on energy infrastructure. Zelenskyy reiterated the importance of safeguarding additional infrastructure, such as railways and ports.
Former President Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism regarding the negotiations, anticipating significant progress and a potential escalation into a full ceasefire following a pause of hostilities in the Black Sea region. In a related development, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed adherence to a directive for the Russian military to suspend attacks on energy facilities for 30 days and accused Ukraine of undermining the ceasefire by targeting Russian energy assets.
In response, Ukraine’s military General Staff refuted Moscow’s claims, asserting that the attack on a gas metering station was executed by Russian forces, which Peskov dismissed as “absurd.”
The resumption of ceasefire talks between the U.S. and Russia in Saudi Arabia reflects a concerted effort to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, characterized by diplomatic dialogue and shifting military strategies. While initial agreements have been made, continued attacks from both sides raise concerns regarding the feasibility of a durable ceasefire. The outcomes of these discussions may shape the future of hostilities in the region.
Original Source: wset.com
