Ceasefire talks in the Russia-Ukraine war are scheduled for Sunday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, led by US officials. Russia has indicated agreement on two points, although Ukraine has accused it of rejecting the ceasefire. The US seeks a 30-day full ceasefire, contingent upon the cessation of military aid to Ukraine by its allies. Recent discussions reflect optimism for progress amid ongoing hostilities.
Discussions for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine are slated to commence on Sunday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This announcement was made by US President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, shortly after an extensive phone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting the seriousness of the negotiations.
Witkoff disclosed that the US delegation, which will participate in these critical talks, will be headed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. However, the specifics regarding their counterpart representatives were not revealed. Witkoff noted efforts concerning a ceasefire that includes energy infrastructure and Black Sea targets, asserting that, “I think both of those are now agreed to by the Russians. I am certainly hopeful that the Ukrainians will agree to it.”
Despite these discussions, Ukraine accused Russia of rebuffing the US-backed ceasefire proposition, as reports emerged of continued strikes on civilian infrastructure by Russian forces shortly after their agreement to temporarily pause assaults on the energy grid. The US has advocated for a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire to serve as a precursor for a broader resolution to the protracted conflict, which has now entered its third year.
During a 90-minute conversation, President Putin insisted that any ceasefire agreement hinged upon Ukraine’s allies ceasing all military assistance. The Kremlin announced that Putin has commanded a temporary halt of military strikes against Ukrainian energy sites for 30 days. Nonetheless, Witkoff maintained that the proposed ceasefire would encompass a broader scope, including other forms of energy and infrastructure.
In his remarks, Witkoff praised Putin for his proactive engagement during the discussion, stating that the advancements made regarding the consensus on energy and infrastructure pave the way towards a potential full ceasefire. He expressed optimism, indicating that reaching a ceasefire agreement was within reach given the recent developments.
In summary, ceasefire negotiations between Russia and Ukraine are set to unfold in Saudi Arabia, with key US officials leading the talks. Despite some progress, Ukraine remains skeptical due to ongoing Russian attacks. The US aims for a comprehensive ceasefire to stabilize the region, while addressing conditions necessary for a lasting resolution is pivotal. The dialogue initiated may either advance peace efforts or highlight the complexities remaining between the two nations.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
