Diplomatic Efforts for Ceasefire: Ukraine and US Teams Meet in Saudi Arabia
Ukrainian and US officials met in Saudi Arabia to prepare for truce talks with Russia, focusing on energy infrastructure protection and ceasefire nuances. The discussions follow a 30-day ceasefire proposal from Russia, although broader agreements are still sought. Hostilities continue despite diplomatic efforts, with significant attacks reported in Ukraine.
Ukrainian and US officials convened in Saudi Arabia on Sunday ahead of upcoming truce discussions with Russia. This meeting is part of US-mediated efforts to cease hostilities following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov stated that the agenda includes proposals aimed at safeguarding energy facilities and critical infrastructure, with meetings following previous discussions between US and Russian representatives.
The Ukrainian delegation, led by Umerov, is focused on clarifying the details regarding potential ceasefire protocols, including monitoring and control measures. This meeting, while considered technical, is part of a broader diplomatic effort to secure a ceasefire agreement. Although President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed optimism about the potential for substantive action, Ukrainian officials remain cautious about the overall outcome.
Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin accepted a 30-day ceasefire proposal from former US President Trump, which was intended to halt attacks on energy infrastructure. However, this agreement did not encompass a broader truce that Washington had hoped for and which Kyiv supports. According to Bloomberg News, the US anticipates a comprehensive ceasefire to be negotiated in the coming weeks, aiming for an agreement by April 20.
On Monday, experts from Russia and the US will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss ensuring the safety of maritime shipping in the Black Sea. Despite these negotiations, reports indicate ongoing hostilities, including drone attacks on civilian areas in Kyiv, resulting in fatalities and significant damage. Russian military claims include the interception of 59 Ukrainian drones targeting their southwestern regions, demonstrating the persistent tensions on the ground.
The ongoing discussions between Ukrainian and US teams in Saudi Arabia highlight the complex efforts to establish a ceasefire in the conflict with Russia. While initial agreements have been made concerning energy infrastructure, broader truce negotiations are still pending. Continuous hostilities in the region underscore the challenges facing diplomatic resolutions. The meetings represent a critical step toward managing the conflict, but tangible progress remains necessary.
Original Source: www.france24.com
