The U.S. delegation will engage in talks with Russia to pursue a Black Sea ceasefire and broader cessation of violence in Ukraine. Led by National Security Council and State Department officials, these discussions aim to address maritime safety and verification measures amid ongoing conflict. Despite diplomatic efforts, reports indicate continued military operations from both sides as they navigate the path toward peace.
A U.S. delegation is set to engage in discussions with Russian officials on Monday, with the goal of establishing a ceasefire in the Black Sea and broader cessation of hostilities in Ukraine. These discussions follow earlier talks with Ukrainian diplomats and are part of President Trump’s intensified efforts to halt Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine.
Leading the U.S. side are Andrew Peek from the National Security Council and Michael Anton from the State Department. After meeting with the Ukrainian delegates, they intend to sit with Russian representatives on Monday. The White House emphasizes that the primary goal is securing a maritime ceasefire to facilitate safe shipping in the Black Sea.
National Security Adviser Mike Waltz confirmed that delegations from the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine are meeting in Riyadh. In addition to discussing a Black Sea ceasefire, topics will include verification measures, peacekeeping efforts, and “confidence-building measures” such as the return of Ukrainian children taken by Russia.
Russia’s delegation will be led by Grigory Karasin and Sergei Beseda. Ukraine’s delegation, headed by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, discusses proposals to safeguard energy infrastructure during the talks. After setbacks for Ukraine in 2024, Trump’s administration aims to shift policy, pushing for bilateral discussions with Moscow and urging Ukraine to assume more responsibility for conflict resolution.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed that concerns about Russia’s potential aggression towards Europe appear overblown. He conveyed that Putin seeks peace rather than expansion reminiscent of WWII. Nonetheless, Trump’s engagement has raised alarm among European allies regarding a potential pivot in U.S. foreign policy away from countering Russian threats.
The ongoing war has resulted in extensive casualties and the displacement of millions. Putin previously indicated support for a truce under specific conditions, while there have been dialogues regarding the frameworks for possible ceasefire arrangements.
On Tuesday, Putin responded to Trump’s proposal to halt attacks on energy infrastructure for 30 days but stopped short of a comprehensive ceasefire, which Ukraine and the U.S. were advocating. Despite diplomatic efforts, reports indicate ongoing military activity from both sides. According to Bloomberg, the U.S. is aiming for a broader ceasefire by April 20, amid continued strikes and slow Russian advancements in eastern Ukraine.
In summary, the U.S. delegation’s upcoming talks with Russian officials aim to establish a Black Sea ceasefire and a wider cessation of violence in Ukraine. Led by key officials from the National Security Council and State Department, the discussions cover critical issues such as energy safety and verification measures. Despite a backdrop of ongoing conflict, the U.S. hopes to secure a broader ceasefire agreement by mid-April, highlighting the complexities of diplomatic engagements amidst continued military activity.
Original Source: www.theglobeandmail.com
