Ceasefire Talks Scheduled in Jeddah Amid Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Ceasefire negotiations for the Russia-Ukraine war are set for Sunday in Jeddah, led by U.S. officials. While Russia has paused some military strikes, Ukraine alleges continued attacks. Washington advocates a 30-day ceasefire as a step toward lasting peace.

Negotiations aimed at achieving a ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict are scheduled to take place on Sunday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as confirmed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff. Following a comprehensive phone discussion between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Witkoff stated that the talks would commence that day.

Witkoff announced that the U.S. delegation would be led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, although the specific Russian representatives were not disclosed. He expressed optimism regarding agreements on ceasefire terms involving energy infrastructure and strategic targets in the Black Sea.

However, Ukraine has accused Russia of rejecting the ceasefire proposal supported by the United States, citing a continued assault on civilian structures shortly after Russia had ostensibly paused attacks on the energy sector. Washington is advocating for a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire as an initial measure toward resolving the ongoing three-year conflict.

During a 90-minute call with Trump, President Putin maintained that a ceasefire agreement would depend on Ukraine’s allies ceasing military support. The Kremlin indicated that Putin had directed a halt to military actions against Ukrainian energy facilities for a duration of 30 days. Nevertheless, Witkoff emphasized that the proposed ceasefire encompassed general energy and infrastructure considerations.

Witkoff expressed gratitude toward President Putin for actions that potentially advance discussions toward a final peace agreement. He conveyed his belief that with emerging consensus on targets regarding energy, infrastructure, and the Black Sea, a full ceasefire may soon be achievable.

In conclusion, the upcoming ceasefire talks in Jeddah mark a pivotal moment in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Despite challenges and accusations of rejection from Ukraine, the involvement of high-level U.S. representatives and a provisional consensus on certain targets reflect a potential path toward peace. Continued negotiations will be essential to determining the feasibility of a lasting resolution.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com