Kremlin Remains Silent on Ceasefire Talks with U.S. as Ukraine Advances Diplomacy
The Kremlin keeps quiet on U.S. ceasefire discussions as Ukraine prepares for talks. U.S. and Russian officials are expected to issue a joint statement following talks aimed at a 30-day ceasefire in the Black Sea. President Zelenskyy insists on including European allies in peace negotiations, while Russia seeks terms restricting Ukraine’s rearmament.
On Tuesday, the Kremlin refrained from disclosing details regarding ceasefire discussions with U.S. officials. Ukrainian diplomats are preparing for further conversations with their American counterparts. Kremlin Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the nature of these talks was “technical,” indicating no public disclosure of the discussions’ content. He also stated that President Putin does not have plans for an immediate call with President Trump, although diplomatic contacts will persist.
U.S. and Russian officials were expected to announce a joint statement following extensive talks in Saudi Arabia aimed at establishing a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire amid ongoing conflicts between Russia and Ukraine. Efforts appeared to center on a maritime ceasefire within the Black Sea, a critical area for trade, particularly affecting agricultural exports and global supply chains.
Russian state media reported that discussions lasted about 12 hours, characterized by a senior official as “detailed and complex.” Grigory Karasin, chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, noted that topics covered were extensive and beneficial for both sides. The discussions hinted at Russia seeking the lifting of certain Western sanctions to restore a vital grain deal abandoned in mid-2023.
In previous talks with U.S. officials, Ukraine had already consented to a 30-day ceasefire but accused Russia of manipulation concerning a potential truce delay. Ukrainian officials were set to engage in discussions in Saudi Arabia as reported by Suspilne. President Zelenskyy discussed recent discussions with both American and Ukrainian representatives to further diplomatic efforts.
Zelenskyy highlighted the necessity for European allies to be integrated into any forthcoming peace agreement, despite Moscow and Washington expressing doubts about their role. He asserted the need for genuine movement towards peace that ensures security for Ukraine and globally. Concurrently, President Putin insisted that any ceasefire must prevent Ukraine from rearming and require a halt to weapon deliveries during the ceasefire period.
The Kremlin’s reluctance to reveal details from the ceasefire discussions reflects the complex diplomatic landscape involving Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S. Talks focus on a potential maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea and a 30-day ceasefire agreement impacted by sanctions and regional stability. As Ukraine emphasizes the inclusion of European allies in future negotiations, the path to lasting peace remains uncertain amid ongoing disagreements and calls for security guarantees.
Original Source: www.cnbc.com
