Ceasefire discussions between Russia and Ukraine will begin in Jeddah on Sunday, led by U.S. officials. While Russia shows some openness to a halt on energy strikes, Ukraine claims these efforts have been undermined by further attacks. The U.S. is advocating for a broader ceasefire to pave the way for lasting peace.
On Sunday, talks regarding a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine will take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This information was disclosed by Steve Witkoff, the special envoy of U.S. President Donald Trump, during an interview on Fox News. Witkoff confirmed that these discussions are set to commence following a significant phone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The U.S. delegation will be led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, although it remains unspecified who they will engage with in discussions. Witkoff acknowledged some progress with regard to ceasefire conditions involving energy infrastructure and targets in the Black Sea, expressing hope that Ukraine would concur with these terms.
Contrarily, Ukraine has accused Russia of rejecting the ceasefire proposal backed by the United States, citing intensified strikes on civilian facilities shortly after Russia proposed a temporary halt to attacks on the energy grid. The U.S. is advocating for a comprehensive, 30-day ceasefire to initiate broader negotiations to resolve the ongoing conflict that has persisted for three years.
During a 90-minute conversation on Tuesday, President Putin rejected the idea of a ceasefire, asserting that any agreement would depend on Ukraine’s allies ceasing all military support. The Kremlin has indicated that Putin has ordered a halt to military strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure for 30 days. Witkoff emphasized that the ceasefire proposal encompasses energy and infrastructure matters broadly.
Witkoff commended President Putin for his efforts during the phone call, which he believes brings the parties closer to achieving a final peace agreement. He expressed optimism that consensus on energy and infrastructure issues could lead quickly to a full ceasefire.
In summary, ceasefire talks between Russia and Ukraine are set to proceed in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. While there has been some acknowledgment from Russia regarding a pause in strikes, Ukraine remains skeptical due to continued assaults on civilian sites. The U.S. is pursuing a more extensive ceasefire agreement to facilitate long-term peace, amidst a complex backdrop involving military aid and energy targets.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
