US and Russia Engage in Peace Talks in Saudi Arabia for Ukraine Ceasefire
US and Russian officials are holding ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia, focusing on a deal in the Black Sea to ensure shipping safety. This follows recent discussions with Ukraine and has backing from President Trump. Key representatives from both nations are participating, with Ukraine seeking a lasting peace despite Zelensky’s criticisms of Russia’s role in extending the conflict.
In an effort to establish a ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine war, US and Russian officials are engaged in talks in Saudi Arabia. The primary objective is to reach a ceasefire agreement in the Black Sea, facilitating the safe passage of shipping in that region. Recent discussions follow productive negotiations between the US and Ukraine aimed at addressing the conflict’s energy infrastructure.
The talks are taking place amidst heightened efforts from US President Donald Trump to conclude the war. He has recently communicated with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, resulting in a tentative agreement to halt attacks on energy infrastructure for 30 days. This initiative reflects a strategic approach by Washington to create a maritime ceasefire as a precursor to broader peace talks.
US representatives at the talks in Saudi Arabia include Andrew Peek, senior director of the White House National Security Council, and Michael Anton, a senior official from the State Department. Conversely, Russia’s delegation is led by Grigory Karasin, chair of the Federation Council’s foreign affairs committee, and Sergei Beseda from the Federal Security Service, highlighting the significance of these discussions.
Earlier, Ukraine’s defense minister Rustem Umerov stated that discussions with US officials were “productive and focused,” addressing key issues such as energy while striving for a just and lasting peace. In a Sunday address, Zelensky criticized Russia for prolonging the conflict, urging partners to persuade Putin to provide a genuine order to cease hostilities, emphasizing that the aggressor must initiate peace efforts.
The discussions between US and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia represent a critical step towards reaching a ceasefire in the Ukraine war, particularly aimed at securing a maritime agreement in the Black Sea. With support from both US and Ukrainian leadership, the ultimate goal is to establish a path towards a broader peace agreement, while addressing pressing issues such as energy infrastructure and shipping safety.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
