Discussions Between Russia and the US on Ukraine Conflict Commence in Riyadh
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Synopsis
Russia and the US have initiated discussions in Riyadh aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These talks focus on a potential partial ceasefire and the cessation of hostilities, following prior consultations between the US and Ukrainian delegations.
Key Takeaways
- Russia and US discussions began in Riyadh.
- Focus on a potential ceasefire in Ukraine.
- Delegations led by top officials from both nations.
- Emphasis on resuming trade in the Black Sea.
- Progress reported by Ukrainian officials on key issues.
Moscow, March 24 (NationPress) Discussions have commenced between Russia and the United States in Riyadh regarding the resolution of the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The objective of these talks is to deliberate on specifics concerning a partial ceasefire and the halting of hostilities to conclude the conflict.
This initiative follows consultations held by the US and Ukrainian delegations in the Saudi capital on Sunday, focusing on a possible ceasefire agreement.
The Russian team is led by Grigory Karasin, the Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, alongside Sergey Beseda, an advisor to the Director of the Federal Security Service (FSB).
On the American side, the delegation is headed by Michael Anton, the Director of Policy Planning at the US State Department, with contributions from advisors to Keith Kellogg and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, as reported by Russia's state-run news agency TASS.
In an interview with CBS News, Waltz mentioned that the discussions would cover the cessation of hostilities in the Black Sea region and the resumption of trade activities through these waters.
"We are set to discuss a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, allowing both sides to transport grain and initiate trade once again," stated Mike Waltz.
Previously, Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov noted that the US and Russia would specifically focus on reviving the Black Sea grain initiative, following a recent agreement between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump during a phone call.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remarked on Sunday that the meeting between Ukrainian and US representatives in Riyadh was "constructive and advantageous," with notable progress achieved on vital issues.
"Our team is working effectively, and the discussions have been very productive. There’s ongoing work by the delegations," reported The Kyiv Independent, quoting Zelensky.
Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, who led the Ukrainian delegation, indicated that the talks encompassed military, diplomatic, and energy discussions.
"The conversation was fruitful and significant — we addressed crucial matters, including those related to energy," Umerov shared on social media on Monday.
Last week, Trump and Putin engaged in a phone conversation, emphasizing the necessity for peace and a ceasefire to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. Both leaders concurred that the pathway to peace would initiate with a ceasefire in energy and infrastructure, along with technical negotiations regarding a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, a comprehensive ceasefire, and lasting peace.
