US and Russian Delegations Confer in Saudi Arabia on Ukraine Ceasefire
High-level officials from the United States and Russia convened in Saudi Arabia on Monday to initiate discussions, as former President Donald Trump advocates for a limited ceasefire. Washington hopes this cessation of hostilities will serve as an initial stride toward a durable resolution in Ukraine.
Partial Ceasefire Agreement in Principle
Ukraine and Russia have reportedly reached an agreement in principle to suspend attacks on energy infrastructure for one month. This development follows recent communications between Trump and the leaders of both nations.
Uncertainty Surrounds Implementation
However, considerable ambiguity persists regarding the timing and implementation of this partial ceasefire. Questions remain as to whether the agreement’s scope will encompass sites beyond energy infrastructure, potentially including critical locations such as hospitals, bridges, and essential utilities.
Riyadh Meeting Location
US officials conducted preliminary talks with Ukrainian representatives on Sunday evening. Separate meetings with the Russian delegation are underway on Monday, primarily hosted at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Riyadh.
Shuttle Diplomacy Expected
American negotiators are anticipated to engage in shuttle diplomacy between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations to finalize the ceasefire parameters. Discussions will also encompass specific measures to guarantee maritime security in the Black Sea.
US Envoy Optimistic About Broader Truce
“The ultimate objective is a 30-day cessation of hostilities, providing a window for discussions on a permanent ceasefire. We are within close proximity of achieving this,” stated Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy, in a recent podcast interview.
Ukraine Prioritizes Infrastructure Protection
The Ukrainian and US delegations have discussed proposals focused on safeguarding energy facilities and other critical infrastructure, according to statements from Ukraine’s defense minister.
Zelenskyy Praises Constructive Dialogue
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukraine’s president, characterized his nation’s delegation’s approach to Sunday’s talks as “completely constructive.” He added, “The dialogue is proving quite productive, and the delegations are continuing their work.”
Infrastructure ‘No-Strike’ List
President Zelenskyy had previously indicated his intention to provide the US with a list of Ukrainian energy infrastructure sites that would be designated as off-limits to Russian strikes.
Further Discussions Anticipated
The Ukrainian delegation may engage in further discussions with US officials on Monday to refine details of the proposed ceasefire.
Ukraine’s Commitment to Peace
“We are executing the President of Ukraine’s directive to expedite a just peace and enhance security,” declared Rustem Umerov, the Ukrainian defense minister leading the delegation, via social media.
Russian Representatives at Talks
Russia’s delegation includes Sergey Beseda, an advisor to Russia’s FSB services, and Grigory Karasin, a former diplomat involved in the 2014 Minsk agreements between Russia and Ukraine.
Controversy Surrounds US Envoy’s Statements
Preceding the talks, remarks made by Witkoff, Trump’s personal envoy to Putin, sparked controversy. Witkoff appeared to legitimize Russia’s referendums in occupied Ukrainian regions.
Witkoff’s Referendum Remarks
In discussion, Witkoff asserted that in the regions where Moscow orchestrated referendums on joining Russia, “the vast majority of the populace expressed their desire to be under Russian governance.”
Referendums Widely Condemned
The referendums conducted in Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia provinces were widely denounced internationally as illegitimate. They are viewed as a maneuver to rationalize Russia’s unlawful annexation of these territories.
Drone Attacks Precede Ceasefire Efforts
Amid ceasefire discussions, Moscow appears to be intensifying military operations. Recent mass drone assaults were launched against Ukraine, including an attack on Kyiv that resulted in casualties over the weekend.
Divergent Positions on Long-Term Settlement
Currently, Moscow and Kyiv hold considerably divergent positions regarding acceptable terms for a lasting peace agreement. There is no indication that President Putin has moderated his maximalist objectives in the conflict.
Russia’s Maximalist Demands
Russia has articulated several maximalist preconditions for any enduring settlement. These stipulations, largely unacceptable to Kyiv and its European allies, include:
- The cessation of all foreign military assistance and intelligence sharing with Ukraine.
- Limitations on the size of Ukraine’s armed forces.
- International recognition of Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian regions following the 2022 referendums.
Western Troop Presence Disputed
The Kremlin has also conveyed its opposition to any Western military presence in Ukraine, which Kyiv considers vital for long-term security guarantees.
Ukraine’s Skepticism Remains
Ukraine maintains significant skepticism regarding any agreement with Russia, citing prior instances where Moscow has failed to uphold its commitments.