Significant US-Ukrainian Talks in Saudi Arabia Precede Russian Negotiations

US and Ukrainian officials held crucial talks in Saudi Arabia, with discussions described as constructive by Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. Upcoming meetings between US and Russian representatives aim for a cease-fire in the Ukraine war. Despite optimistic remarks from US officials, analysts express caution regarding the likelihood of immediate breakthroughs, especially in light of recent escalated attacks from Russia.

US and Ukrainian officials recently held significant discussions in Saudi Arabia, preceding upcoming talks between US and Russian representatives aimed at establishing a cease-fire in the Ukraine conflict. Although Washington has yet to provide immediate commentary, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov expressed that the dialogue was both constructive and meaningful, focusing on critical issues such as energy.

Umerov conveyed, “President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s goal is to secure a just and lasting peace for our country and our people — and, by extension, for all of Europe. We are working to make that goal a reality.” This meeting in Riyadh was considered a pivotal moment in the US-led initiative for a cease-fire, allowing all parties to engage in discussions simultaneously, potentially accelerating the process.

In the backdrop of these talks, US and Russian officials are slated to meet, with Moscow’s delegation arriving on March 23. However, the prospect of significant breakthroughs remains bleak. President Zelenskyy stated the conversations were “quite useful” while reiterating the necessity of a real order from Russian President Vladimir Putin to cease hostilities.

US officials, however, are optimistic about the Saudi talks. US envoy Steve Witkoff remarked, “I think that you’re going to see in Saudi Arabia on Monday some real progress.” On the other hand, political analyst Serhiy Taran warned that even the best outcome from discussions might only yield a temporary pause in combat, signifying the potential for an extended negotiation period.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov also tempered expectations, indicating that serious and thorough work lies ahead. As negotiations will occur through a shuttle diplomacy model, Russian and Ukrainian diplomats will not meet directly but will engage separately with the US team—much like the extended negotiations previously seen in Gaza.

While discussions for a cease-fire continue, President Donald Trump’s optimism regarding swift resolutions has faced various setbacks. These include an initial plan for a general 30-day cease-fire that met resistance from Putin and limitations on what attacks would be paused. Conflicting messages about secured agreements and aid for Ukraine’s rare Earth minerals have further complicated the situation.

As discussions work towards a cease-fire on the Black Sea and related maritime activities, Witkoff expressed confidence in Putin’s desire for peace, despite skepticism from Ukraine and European allies. The delicate diplomatic process coincides with intensified Russian attacks, resulting in civilian casualties just before the commencement of the talks.

Moreover, Kyiv has been responding with its military operations, underscoring the urgency of achieving a comprehensive cease-fire in the ongoing conflict.

The recent talks between US and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia mark a pivotal step in diplomatic efforts to achieve a cease-fire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. As both US and Russian delegations prepare for their imminent discussions, expectations for substantial progress remain cautious. The urgency of finding a resolution is heightened by recent escalations in hostilities, making continued diplomatic engagement essential for peace efforts.

Original Source: www.eurasiareview.com