Ukraine and the US have initiated talks in Saudi Arabia to address energy facility protection amid the ongoing Russian invasion. These discussions focus on a potential ceasefire and include military and energy expert participation from Ukraine. While President Zelenskyy expressed willingness to pause attacks, clashes continue unabated. Russian officials are also set to engage in separate negotiations in the kingdom, showcasing the intricate dynamics of this diplomatic effort.
Senior diplomats from Ukraine and the United States commenced discussions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, focusing on the protection of energy facilities amid ongoing hostilities in Ukraine, now in its fourth year due to the Russian invasion. These talks follow efforts initiated by former President Donald Trump to negotiate an expedient conclusion to the conflict, including deliberations on a prospective partial ceasefire.
Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov announced via social media that the talks were initiated to advance President Zelenskyy’s directive, emphasizing a commitment to secure a just peace and enhanced safety. The Ukrainian delegation encompasses energy specialists alongside military representatives from naval and air forces, concentrating on critical infrastructure protection.
President Zelenskyy had previously communicated acceptance of the US’s unconditional ceasefire proposal during a conversation with Trump, indicating readiness from Kyiv to suspend attacks on Russian energy and civilian sites. However, despite ceasefire proposals, hostilities have continued, resulting in casualties from strikes on both sides, demonstrating the ongoing volatility of the situation.
The talks, originally intended for concurrent meetings to facilitate negotiation, have been adjusted to occur sequentially, allowing for focused dialogue. Steve Witkoff, an envoy for Trump, expressed optimism about potential advancements in the talks, particularly regarding a ceasefire related to maritime operations in the Black Sea.
In a related development, Russian officials are also scheduled to engage in discussions with the United States in Saudi Arabia, with representation from senior figures in the Russian government. This meeting is set to follow the Ukraine-US talks, aiming to build a foundation for diplomatic resolution to the conflict. Earlier negotiations in March, which deemed critical to resuming US military aid, showcased the interconnectedness of military support and diplomatic dialogue in this protracted conflict.
In summary, the ongoing talks between Ukraine and the United States in Saudi Arabia highlight the urgency of addressing the ongoing conflict with a focus on critical infrastructure protection and a potential ceasefire. Despite previous agreements and ongoing negotiations, hostilities persist, underscoring the complexities involved. The presence of Russian officials indicates a broader framework of diplomatic engagement necessary to seek resolution, emphasizing the importance of continuous dialogue in stabilizing the region.
Original Source: www.news18.com
