Overview of New US-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia: Ceasefire Negotiations
US and Russian officials commenced new negotiations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on March 24, focusing on a ceasefire in the Black Sea. Key topics include establishing control lines and confidence-building measures. The US delegation is led by Andrew Peek and Michael Anton, while Russia is represented by Grigory Karasin and General Sergey Beseda. Despite dialogue, tensions remain high due to ongoing military actions by Russia.
The US and Russia began a new round of negotiations on March 24 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This meeting follows discussions the previous day between the US and Ukrainian representatives. According to reports, the meeting at The Ritz-Carlton hotel is closed to journalists, highlighting the sensitivity of the talks.
The primary objective of the discussions is to negotiate a ceasefire in the Black Sea to facilitate free navigation. Following their meeting with Ukrainian representatives, the US delegation now aims to reach agreements with the Russians, focusing on establishing control lines, oversight measures, and confidence-building actions, including the return of Ukrainian children taken by Russia.
The US delegation, led by Andrew Peek of the National Security Council and Michael Anton from the State Department, engages in the talks alongside Russian representatives, including Grigory Karasin and General Sergey Beseda, both prominent figures in Russian international relations and security affairs. The negotiation dynamics may involve additional consultation with Ukraine, although direct communication with Russia from Ukraine remains unlikely.
The US-Ukraine negotiations, which took place on March 23, lasted five hours. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov described the talks as productive, addressing critical issues such as safeguarding energy infrastructure. These discussions occur amid efforts by Donald Trump to secure a 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine has agreed to only upon Russia’s commitment.
Despite Russia’s announcement of a temporary halt to attacks on Ukraine’s energy sites, reports indicate continued aerial strikes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted that while an unconditional ceasefire proposal was made in March, Russia is not showing signs of backing down, effectively prolonging the conflict.
The new talks between the US and Russia signify ongoing diplomatic efforts to address tensions related to the Black Sea conflict. The focus on ceasefire agreements and oversight measures highlights the urgency of establishing stability in the region. While constructive discussions have taken place, the situation remains complex, especially with Russia’s continued military actions against Ukraine.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
