Ukraine and US Engage in Ceasefire Discussions with Russia in Saudi Arabia
Ukrainian and US teams met in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential partial ceasefire with Russia. The meeting, led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, aimed to enhance the protection of energy infrastructure. Despite ongoing military actions, there is cautious optimism for a broader ceasefire agreement soon.
Ukrainian and US officials convened in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential partial ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Russia, a meeting preceding US-mediated discussions involving US and Russian teams. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed that discussions aimed to enhance the protection of critical energy facilities and infrastructure, as noted by his remarks on Facebook.
This meeting follows a series of previous talks held in Saudi Arabia, beginning with discussions between the US and Russia. Ukraine had previously accepted a 30-day ceasefire proposal. Umerov’s leadership was highlighted by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who emphasized the efficiency of Kyiv’s response in this context. However, Ukrainian officials characterized Sunday’s meeting primarily as technical.
Heorhii Tykhyi, the spokesperson for Ukraine’s foreign ministry, indicated that the goal of the talks was to examine the various modalities of a possible ceasefire and concentrated on monitoring and control mechanisms associated with these arrangements. Russian President Vladimir Putin had earlier agreed to a proposal for a 30-day cessation of attacks on critical energy infrastructure, although the broader truce sought by the US and supported by Kyiv did not materialize.
Former President Donald Trump commented that efforts to de-escalate the situation were “somewhat under control,” with anticipation of a broader ceasefire agreement by April 20. Concurrently, Russian and US experts are scheduled to meet in Saudi Arabia to explore the security of shipping lanes in the Black Sea.
Despite diplomatic initiatives, both Ukraine and Russia reported ongoing military strikes, with Russian offensives continuing in eastern Ukraine. A recent drone attack by Russia on Kyiv resulted in fatalities, including that of a child, while Russian air defenses reportedly intercepted numerous Ukrainian drone attacks.
In summary, the meeting between Ukrainian and US officials in Saudi Arabia marks a significant step towards negotiating a potential ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Russia. While discussions are focused on technical details and modalities for monitoring a ceasefire, recent military actions underscore the persistent hostilities. The international community remains hopeful for a comprehensive truce in the near future amidst these ongoing negotiations.
Original Source: www.france24.com
