Russia and Ukraine Engage in U.S.-Mediated Cease-Fire Talks in Riyadh
Ukrainian and U.S. officials conducted U.S.-mediated discussions in Riyadh to explore a limited cease-fire and pause strikes on energy sites amid ongoing tensions with Russia. Lavrov and Ukrainian officials highlighted discussions on shipping in the Black Sea and the revival of a grain deal. Both sides insist on rigid terms, complicating the potential for effective negotiations or lasting agreements.
Ukrainian and U.S. officials recently engaged in U.S.-mediated negotiations in Riyadh to explore a potential limited cease-fire and stop strikes on energy infrastructure. Separately, Russian officials had talks in the same venue, encompassing discussions about a cease-fire in the Black Sea, essential for both countries’ commodity exports, indicating a possible initial step towards halting the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
The agenda for talks in Riyadh prioritized a tentative agreement to suspend attacks on energy infrastructure. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov mentioned that discussions largely centered on shipping safety in the Black Sea and reviving a grain deal from 2022, which permitted significant Ukrainian grain exports. However, he added that Russia required the fulfillment of certain demands before agreeing to restore this deal.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky indicated that Ukraine would compile a list of critical infrastructure for the cease-fire, suggesting the necessity for third-party monitoring, potentially by the U.S. The goal of the negotiations is to establish a 30-day full cease-fire to allow for further discussions on a permanent agreement.
Despite the talks, the approach to achieving a truce remains fraught with challenges, as Russia insists on demanding territorial assurances and Ukraine’s pledge not to join NATO, which Ukraine refuses to concede. Moscow’s maximalist demands raise concerns about the possibility of reaching a fruitful agreement.
Leading the Russian side, Grigory B. Karasin and Sergey O. Beseda participated in the negotiations, with Karasin deeming the talks as “creative.” Beseda’s presence raised eyebrows due to his previous involvement in shaping Russia’s intelligence operations concerning Ukraine. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian delegation, headed by Mr. Umerov and including military advisers, comprised key negotiators appointed by President Zelensky.
Putin previously articulated conditions for any temporary truce, including halting Ukraine’s military mobilization and foreign aid, which the U.S. affirmed they would continue. Concurrently, Kyiv’s stance emphasizes that it will not yield on sovereignty issues or commit to military reductions.
Looking forward, there’s speculation about Trump and Putin potentially reconvening in Saudi Arabia, while U.S. officials are expected to maintain ongoing dialogue with both Russian and Ukrainian representatives. However, analysts express skepticism about the sustainability of any cease-fire, citing historical violations of past agreements that exacerbated distrust between the two nations.
The foundations for this diplomatic engagement appear unstable, with both Moscow and Kyiv holding firm to their military positions, underscoring the urgency of continued negotiations even in the face of persistent hostilities.
The U.S.-mediated talks in Saudi Arabia between Ukraine and Russia have opened discussions about a temporary cease-fire and energy strike moratorium, albeit amidst significant hurdles. Both parties maintain rigid positions, especially regarding territorial integrity and military alliances. Despite the potential for a brief truce, skepticism about its lasting power looms, reflecting a long-standing trend of broken agreements. Continued diplomatic engagement is critical as both sides remain resolved to pursue their military objectives.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
