The White House thanked Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for facilitating Russia-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia aimed at ensuring safe navigation in the Black Sea. Agreements were reached to secure this vital waterway, with both parties discussing initial steps towards conflict resolution. Ukrainian President Zelensky endorsed the talks, while Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov stressed the need for guarantees from Washington regarding compliance by Ukraine.
The White House has expressed gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his role in facilitating discussions between Russia and Ukraine regarding the safe navigation of the Black Sea. A statement highlighted the United States’ appreciation for the Crown Prince’s leadership and hospitality during these significant talks held in Saudi Arabia.
During the discussions in Riyadh, separate agreements were attained with both Russia and Ukraine to ensure the security of the Black Sea, which is critical for transporting agricultural goods. Delegates from both nations, along with U.S. and Saudi officials, engaged in preliminary discussions aimed at addressing essential issues in pursuing a broader resolution to the ongoing conflict.
Amid the backdrop of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and subsequent territorial annexations, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remarked positively about the discussions, characterizing them as foundational steps towards achieving a peaceful resolution.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov emphasized the necessity for “clear guarantees,” suggesting that effective agreements necessitate direct commands from Washington to President Zelensky and his administration, due to previous unfavorable outcomes with Kyiv alone.
In conclusion, the White House’s acknowledgment of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underscores the importance of diplomatic engagement in resolving conflicts. The talks in Saudi Arabia represent an initial move towards enhancing security in the Black Sea and fostering dialogue between Russia and Ukraine. Both leaders’ positions hold significance for future negotiations, highlighting the critical need for solid guarantees in any agreements reached.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com