Negotiations for Partial Ceasefire in Ukraine Begin in Saudi Arabia
U.S. and Russian diplomats are negotiating a partial ceasefire in Saudi Arabia, focusing on limiting attacks on energy infrastructure and ensuring safe shipping in the Black Sea. The talks follow U.S. President Trump’s earlier discussions with both countries. Disputes about protected targets persist, and recent drone strikes have heightened the call for international pressure on Russia to cease hostilities.
U.S. and Russian negotiators convened in Saudi Arabia to discuss a partial ceasefire in Ukraine shortly after U.S. and Ukrainian officials held their own negotiations. The talks, according to Russian news agencies like Tass and RIA-Novosti, aim to establish a pause in attacks on energy infrastructure and civilian areas, alongside a ceasefire in the Black Sea to ensure safe commercial navigation.
During earlier negotiations, U.S. President Donald Trump facilitated an agreement principle for a limited ceasefire; however, disagreements persist regarding which targets are protected. The White House indicated that the agreement covers “energy and infrastructure,” while the Kremlin constricted its interpretation to solely “energy infrastructure”. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed that railways and ports also be included in the ceasefire.
Recent Russian drone attacks in Ukraine resulted in at least seven casualties, including a father and daughter in Kyiv. In response, Zelenskyy called for increased international pressure on Russia to end the violence, emphasizing collaboration among global partners, including the U.S. and Europe, to achieve peace.
Zelenskyy expressed readiness for a full, 30-day ceasefire, as proposed by Trump, but noted that Putin conditioned such an agreement on ceasing arms supplies to Ukraine and halting military mobilization, demands firmly rejected by Ukraine and its Western allies.
Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy, expressed optimism regarding the negotiations in Saudi Arabia, anticipating significant advancements, particularly concerning a ceasefire in the Black Sea that could lead to a broader cessation of hostilities.
The U.S. and Russia have initiated talks for a partial ceasefire in Ukraine, following several earlier discussions. Disagreements remain regarding the scope of protected targets, and recent drone attacks by Russia underscore the urgency for peace. As the situation evolves, the potential for a comprehensive ceasefire remains uncertain, hinging on the outcomes of ongoing negotiations.
Original Source: apnews.com
