US and Russia Initiate Ceasefire Talks in Saudi Arabia on Ukraine Conflict
US and Russian officials are negotiating a ceasefire in Saudi Arabia, aiming for a one-month halt on military strikes, especially targeting energy infrastructure. However, details are still uncertain and there remains considerable skepticism regarding a lasting peace due to differing positions on key issues. Escalating military operations from Russia underscore the challenges faced in reaching a viable agreement.
Discussions between US and Russian officials began on Monday in Saudi Arabia, with Donald Trump advocating for a limited ceasefire. This initiative aimed at creating a one-month halt to military strikes on energy infrastructure was agreed upon in principle by both Ukraine and Russia after Trump’s recent communication with their leaders. However, details regarding the start date and extent of the ceasefire remain unclear, particularly whether it will encompass critical sites like hospitals and bridges.
The initial stages of the talks took place primarily at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Riyadh, with US officials engaging in discussions with Ukraine prior to their meetings with Russian representatives. It is anticipated that American negotiators will travel back and forth to finalize terms and establish measures for shipping safety in the Black Sea. Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy, remarked, “The ultimate goal is a 30-day ceasefire, during which time we discuss a permanent ceasefire. We’re not far away from that.”
During the talks, the Ukrainian delegation, headed by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, focused on proposals for safeguarding energy infrastructure. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the constructive nature of the discussions, stating the delegation was working diligently to promote security and peace. Zelenskyy also indicated plans to present a list of energy installations exempt from Russian attacks.
Russia’s delegation included Sergey Beseda from the FSB and Grigory Karasin, a diplomat known for previous negotiation roles. The discussions come amid concerns regarding the pro-Russian stance of Witkoff, prompting unease within Ukrainian leadership and European capitals. Statements made by Witkoff reflect a controversial narrative about Russia’s actions, specifically comments about staged referendums that facilitated Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian territories.
In the backdrop of these negotiations, Russia intensified its military operations, conducting extensive drone strikes in Ukraine, resulting in casualties in Kyiv. The stance between Moscow and Kyiv regarding acceptable peace terms shows minimal alignment, particularly with Russia’s rigid demands including a cessation of foreign military assistance and arms restrictions, conditions refuted by Ukraine and its allies.
Moscow has expressed firm rejection of any Western military presence in Ukraine, further complicating the prospects for a comprehensive peace agreement. Ukraine remains resolute in its skepticism towards any accord provided by Russia, citing past failures to adhere to commitments, indicating an ongoing and complicated conflict.
The initiation of ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia marks a critical moment in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, driven by US mediation efforts. However, significant uncertainties remain about the ceasefire’s implementation and scope. The session highlights deep-rooted distrust and conflicting demands from both sides, suggesting a complex path towards achieving a sustainable peace agreement amidst escalating military actions and geopolitical tensions.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
