U.S.-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia Aim for Ukraine Ceasefire
In a significant development, American and Russian negotiators convened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday, seeking to advance discussions around a ceasefire to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has persisted for over three years. The White House continues to advocate for a comprehensive peace deal.
Key Discussion Points
Among the primary topics anticipated in these discussions is a proposed suspension of attacks on energy infrastructure. Both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have expressed, at least in principle, their support for this initiative.
Negotiator Insights
According to Russia’s state-owned news agency Tass, the meetings commenced behind closed doors during the morning in Riyadh. Steve Witkoff, who served as the Middle East envoy under President Trump and has played a pivotal role in negotiations between the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine, conveyed optimism about potential progress. He stated in an interview, “The president’s philosophy of peace through strength brings people to the table to clear up misconceptions and to get peace deals done.”
Context of Ongoing Conflict
As diplomatic efforts unfold, battlefield conditions remain tense. Zelenskyy indicated the necessity of holding Russia accountable, emphasizing that “the one who brought this war must be the one to take it back,” highlighting the persistent missile and drone strikes that continue to affect Ukraine. Notably, Ukraine has also engaged in long-range drone operations over Russian territory.
Concerns Over Narrative Alignment
Witkoff’s remarks have raised concerns domestically and internationally, especially regarding the perception of Russian narratives surrounding its actions in Ukraine. In an interview, he suggested that regions like Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Crimea are primarily Russian-speaking populations that have expressed a desire to be governed by Russia, referencing previous referenda. However, he did not acknowledge that these votes are widely viewed as illegitimate by many in the international community.
Recognizing Ongoing Strikes
In tandem with ongoing negotiations, cross-border attacks persisted over the weekend. Ukrainian officials reported that Russia launched 99 drones targeting various locations, of which 93 were intercepted or failed to cause damage. Conversely, Russia noted that it had shot down 28 Ukrainian drones aimed at its territory.
Conclusion
The meeting in Saudi Arabia represents a critical junction in the efforts to mediate peace in the Russia-Ukraine war. As discussions progress, the international community watches closely to see if tangible steps toward de-escalation can be achieved amidst a backdrop of continued hostilities.