Russia Hopes for Progress in Saudi Talks Amidst Ceasefire Discussions

Moscow is hopeful for progress in negotiations in Saudi Arabia, with discussions set to focus on specific issues rather than a comprehensive ceasefire. U.S. officials are preparing separate talks with Ukrainian and Russian representatives, while Russia pushes for a halt to targeted airstrikes. The unconventional negotiator selection has raised scrutiny. Key negotiator Karasin is optimistic about obtaining at least some resolution.

Moscow is anticipating positive outcomes from the upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia, highlighted by comments from Russian negotiator Senator Grigory Karasin. As U.S. officials prepare a separate dialogue with both Ukrainian and Russian representatives regarding a potential ceasefire, Russia has dismissed the proposal for a comprehensive thirty-day ceasefire, advocating instead for a targeted cessation of airstrikes on energy installations.

The U.S. intends to conduct simultaneous discussions with Ukrainian and Russian delegations on Monday to navigate through the existing deadlock. Senator Karasin expressed hope for at least partial progress in the negotiations, describing his approach as both “combative and constructive.”

The negotiators chosen by Russia, including Karasin and FSB adviser Sergey Beseda, have attracted attention due to their non-traditional backgrounds, as neither belong to established diplomatic entities such as the Kremlin or Foreign Ministry. Karasin, a former diplomat, is now part of Russia’s upper parliamentary house, while Beseda, an experienced FSB operative, was present in Kyiv amid the 2014 pro-EU protests.

Karasin stated, “We are going with the goal of resolving at least one issue,” and mentioned that the Russian delegation plans to depart for Saudi Arabia on Sunday, with a return scheduled for Tuesday.

In summary, Russia is aiming for constructive dialogue in the upcoming negotiations in Saudi Arabia, with hopes of making tangible progress despite the challenges posed by U.S. and Ukrainian positions. The selection of unconventional negotiators has raised questions, and the focus remains on addressing specific issues rather than broad ceasefire terms. The talks represent a critical moment in ongoing diplomatic engagements related to the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

Original Source: www.themoscowtimes.com