U.S. and Russian Ceasefire Talks Initiate in Saudi Arabia Amid Ongoing Conflict
U.S. and Russian negotiators are in Saudi Arabia discussing a partial ceasefire in Ukraine, with a focus on halting attacks on energy infrastructure and ensuring safe shipping in the Black Sea. Despite a principle agreement, discrepancies remain on terms. Recent drone attacks underline the urgency for a ceasefire, while Russia’s conditions complicate further negotiations. Trump’s envoy anticipates significant progress.
On March 23, 2025, U.S. and Russian negotiators commenced discussions in Saudi Arabia regarding a potential partial ceasefire in Ukraine. This initiative followed negotiations between U.S. and Ukrainian officials, with the Saudi Arabian meeting expected to pave the way for further dialogue between U.S. and Ukrainian teams.
The negotiation aims to address specific military actions, including a pause in long-range attacks targeting energy facilities and civilian infrastructure, alongside a halt to assaults in the Black Sea to maintain safe commercial shipping.
A previous agreement was reached in principle between Ukraine and Russia last Wednesday post-discussion between U.S. President Donald Trump and the respective leaders. However, there are discrepancies in understanding the terms of the ceasefire, particularly regarding which targets are to be protected from attacks.
While the White House indicated that “energy and infrastructure” would be safeguarded, the Kremlin limited its interpretation to “energy infrastructure” solely. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has requested protection for railways and ports as well.
Recent drone attacks by Russia have resulted in significant casualties, including a tragic incident in Kyiv that claimed at least seven lives, reinforcing calls for increased global pressure on Russia. Zelenskyy stated, “There must be more pressure on Russia to stop this terror,” highlighting the necessity for support from global partners.
Zelenskyy has indicated that Ukraine is amenable to a full, 30-day ceasefire as proposed by Trump. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s conditions for a complete ceasefire include halting arms supplies to Ukraine and suspending military mobilization, which Ukraine and its allies have rejected.
Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism about the potential outcomes of the Saudi negotiations, stating, “I expect some real progress… particularly as it affects a Black Sea ceasefire on ships between both countries.” He indicated such a progress could lead towards an overall ceasefire in the conflict.
U.S. and Russian negotiators are engaged in ceasefire discussions in Saudi Arabia, aiming for a partial ceasefire in Ukraine amid ongoing conflict. There are disparities in the understanding of ceasefire terms regarding protected targets, while recent drone strikes have escalated calls for global intervention against Russia. Although Ukraine is willing to consider a full ceasefire, conditions set by Russia complicate negotiations. Optimism surrounds the potential for progress in these talks, especially concerning the Black Sea region.
Original Source: apnews.com
