Russia and Ukraine to Hold Separate Talks with U.S. in Saudi Arabia

Russia and Ukraine are to engage in separate talks with the U.S. on March 24 in Saudi Arabia, focusing on navigation safety in the Black Sea and possible revival of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. Russian officials involved include Grigory Karasin and Sergei Beseda, while Ukraine’s participation was confirmed by President Zelensky.

On March 24, delegations from both Russia and Ukraine are scheduled for separate discussions with the United States in Saudi Arabia, as confirmed by officials. Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov stated that the talks will be focused on “safety of navigation in the Black Sea,” following an agreement with U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz on March 19.

The Russian delegation will include prominent individuals such as Grigory Karasin, chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, and Sergei Beseda, who is an adviser to the director of the Federal Security Service (FSB).

Ushakov indicated that these talks may lead to the potential revival of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which was a significant agreement brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in 2022 to allow the export of Ukrainian grain via Black Sea ports. This deal expired in July 2023 after Russia announced its intention to withdraw from the agreement.

Additionally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky disclosed that a Ukrainian delegation will participate in a subsequent round of discussions with U.S. officials on the same date, March 24.

Negotiations on March 24 in Saudi Arabia between the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine are set to address critical issues, particularly concerning the Black Sea’s navigation safety and the potential revival of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. These discussions reflect ongoing efforts to stabilize the region amidst the complexities of the conflict.

Original Source: meduza.io