U.S. and Russian Negotiators Initiate Ceasefire Talks in Saudi Arabia
U.S. and Russian negotiators are in Saudi Arabia for ceasefire talks focused on a partial ceasefire in Ukraine, following prior discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian teams. The negotiations aim to establish guidelines for halting attacks on energy infrastructure and ensuring safe commercial shipping. However, differences exist over the scope of protection. Both leaders express the need for stronger international pressure on Russia to end attacks.
On March 23, 2025, U.S. and Russian negotiators commenced ceasefire discussions in Saudi Arabia to address ongoing conflicts in Ukraine. This meeting followed previous talks between U.S. and Ukrainian representatives. The negotiations, reported by Russian news agencies TASS and RIA-Novosti, aim to establish a pause in long-range attacks targeting energy facilities and civilian infrastructure, as well as ensuring safe commercial shipping in the Black Sea.
Both Ukraine and Russia reached a tentative agreement for a limited ceasefire after discussions that included U.S. President Donald Trump. However, discrepancies exist regarding the scope of protected targets. While the White House included “energy and infrastructure,” the Kremlin specified a more narrowed focus on “energy infrastructure” alone. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed the protection of railways and ports in addition to energy targets.
The context of these talks is underscored by Russia’s recent drone strikes across Ukraine, resulting in multiple casualties, including a father and daughter in Kyiv. Zelenskyy called for increased pressure on Russia to end these attacks, emphasizing the role of international partnerships.
Zelenskyy has shown interest in a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire as proposed by Trump, yet Russian President Vladimir Putin has conditioned a complete ceasefire on a pause of arms supplies to Kyiv and cessation of military mobilization by Ukraine—conditions that Ukraine and its allies have rejected. Steve Witkoff, special envoy for Trump, suggested that significant advancements could be made during the Saudi talks, particularly regarding a ceasefire for Black Sea shipping, potentially paving the way for broader ceasefire discussions.
The ongoing negotiations between U.S. and Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia represent a critical opportunity to address the conflict in Ukraine, focusing on a partial ceasefire. Discrepancies in target definitions complicate the discussions, with both sides holding differing views on what should be protected. The humanitarian impact of continued attacks underlines the urgency of reaching an agreement, as leaders express the need for international support and pressure.
Original Source: apnews.com
