Ceasefire Negotiations Begin Amid Ongoing Violence in Ukraine

U.S. and Russia have initiated ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia aimed at halting attacks in Ukraine, focusing on energy infrastructure and civilian safety. Both sides’ differing interpretations of the ceasefire scope create challenges. Meanwhile, violence continues as Zelenskyy calls for greater international action against Russian aggression.

On Monday, U.S. and Russian negotiators initiated discussions on a partial ceasefire in Ukraine in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following prior talks between U.S. and Ukrainian delegations. The negotiations will address a potential halt on long-range attacks from both sides, specifically targeting energy facilities and civilian infrastructure, alongside ensuring safe shipping in the Black Sea.

Both nations reached a tentative agreement for a limited ceasefire after a conversation between U.S. President Donald Trump and the leaders of Ukraine and Russia. However, expectations differ regarding the scope of protected targets, with the U.S. asserting coverage of energy and infrastructure, while Russia maintains a focus solely on energy facilities. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is advocating for railways and ports to be included in the agreement.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reinforced that the ceasefire agreement pertains strictly to energy facilities and accused Ukraine of disrupting the ceasefire efforts through an assault on a gas facility in Russia. Ukraine denied these accusations, attributing the attack to Russia’s military actions.

Despite ongoing negotiations, Russia conducted drone strikes over Ukraine, which led to civilian casualties, including a father and his young daughter. Zelenskyy pointed out that an unconditional ceasefire proposal has been on the table since March 11, emphasizing that Russia’s ongoing attacks have impeded progress towards peace. He called for greater international pressure on Russia to cease hostilities.

Zelenskyy expressed Ukraine’s willingness to consider a full, month-long ceasefire as proposed by Trump, whereas Putin demands a halt to arms supplies to Ukraine and a suspension of military mobilization, both of which Ukraine and its allies reject. Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy, expressed optimism for progress in the Riyadh talks, particularly regarding Black Sea shipping.

During the negotiations, the focus shifted to more technical discussions involving Ukraine’s military and energy representatives. Zelenskyy emphasized the need for Putin to issue a command to stop the attacks, asserting that the responsibility to end the conflict lies with the instigators.

Additionally, Ukrainian railway operator Ukrzaliznytsia suffered a significant cyberattack affecting online services, although it did not disrupt train operations. Reports indicate that while 99 Russian drones were launched into Ukraine, many were intercepted, but some caused damage in multiple regions, including civilian injuries from drone strikes in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhzhia.

In summary, U.S. and Russian negotiators have begun discussing a partial ceasefire in Ukraine, although significant disagreements persist over which targets are to be protected. Zelenskyy stresses the need for a broader resolution, urging for international pressure on Russia. Despite ongoing violence and cyberattacks, Ukraine remains prepared for negotiations, while the complexities of military, infrastructural, and geopolitical considerations continue to challenge the peace process.

Original Source: www.usnews.com