US-Ukraine Talks in Saudi Arabia: Navigating Difficult…

US and Ukrainian officials are set to meet in Saudi Arabia for talks on resolving the Russian invasion, with the Kremlin describing the negotiations as difficult. US officials aim for tangible progress, particularly on ceasefire agreements, amidst ongoing attacks. The main focus includes reviving the Black Sea grain deal and addressing security concerns as hostilities continue to escalate ahead of the talks.

On Sunday, talks between US and Ukrainian officials are set to commence in Saudi Arabia to address the ongoing Russian invasion. A Ukrainian delegate informed AFP that the Kremlin anticipates “difficult negotiations” ahead, highlighting the complexities involved in achieving peace amidst continuing attacks. US President Donald Trump is advocating for a swift resolution to the three-year conflict, expressing expectations for significant outcomes from the Riyadh discussions.

While separate sessions will occur between US officials and delegations from Ukraine and Russia, both sides have proposed ceasefire plans, albeit to no avail as hostilities persist. Notably, overnight, a Russian strike on Kyiv tragically resulted in the fatalities of three civilians, intensifying the urgency of the talks. Originally set for simultaneous discussions on Monday, the agenda has shifted to sequential discussions instead.

A Ukrainian representative has announced that their meeting with US officials is scheduled for Sunday night. Conversely, Russia plans to engage with the US delegation on Monday. Envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism regarding potential agreements fostering a broader ceasefire, particularly concerning operations in the Black Sea.

However, the Kremlin has dampened expectations for rapid outcomes, emphasizing that the negotiations are merely at their inception. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov underscored the presence of significant issues yet to be resolved surrounding potential ceasefire arrangements. President Putin has proposed a more limited halt, focusing on attacks against energy facilities instead of a comprehensive truce as suggested by Ukraine.

In the discussions, Russia’s primary aim involves reviving the Black Sea grain deal from 2022, which facilitated safe navigation for Ukrainian agricultural exports. Following Russia’s withdrawal from this agreement in 2023, ayory concerns about unfulfilled sanctions commitments have arisen. Ukraine is advocating for an extensive ceasefire encompassing energy infrastructure and naval engagements.

As negotiations approach, both sides are engaged in renewed hostilities, including a devastating drone strike in Kyiv that caused civilian casualties. Ukraine has reported on numerous Russian drone attacks, while Russia has also claimed to thwart Ukrainian drone efforts.

In response to the ongoing hostilities, Ukrainian President Zelensky has called on allies for increased pressure on Russia to halt its aggressive actions. Simultaneously, Russia asserts its own defensive capabilities, having reportedly intercepted dozens of drones overnight. The Kremlin, entering these talks with newfound confidence due to a warming relationship with the US under Trump, views potential collaboration as mutually beneficial despite existing differences.

The upcoming US-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia signify a crucial step in addressing the Russian invasion, with both parties preparing for intricate negotiations. Despite ongoing hostilities and recent violence, diplomatic engagements aim to establish frameworks for ceasefires and potential resolutions, particularly regarding the Black Sea grain initiative. The Kremlin’s cautious approach highlights the challenges that lie ahead, underscoring the necessity for continued international dialogue and pressure on Russia to cease its military actions.

Original Source: www.insidenova.com