US, Russia begin talks in Saudi; Black Sea on focus
What's the story
Representatives from the US and Russia are in talks for a partial ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict. The talks in Saudi Arabia come after US and Ukrainian officials met separately on Sunday for talks, with Washington hoping for "real progress." According to the White House, the aim of the discussions is to negotiate a maritime truce in the Black Sea, which will allow for the free flow of shipping.
Negotiation challenges
Ceasefire proposals amid ongoing cross-border attacks
Both the US and Russia have proposed their plans for a temporary ceasefire. However, cross-border attacks continue without a break. Initially, simultaneous talks were planned to enable shuttle diplomacy, with the US mediating between both sides. Now, meetings are being held sequentially, although the specific reason for this change is not detailed in the sources.
Negotiation outcomes
Productive discussions, but rapid resolution remains uncertain
Concluding late Sunday night, talks between the Ukrainian delegation led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov and American officials ended. Umerov called the discussions productive and focused and said they had touched upon key points, including energy. However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov lowered hopes of a swift resolution on Sunday. They are just starting this process, he said, adding many questions remain on how a ceasefire might be implemented.
Negotiation stance
Russia proposes halt in attacks on energy facilities
Russian President Vladimir Putin had earlier rejected a joint US-Ukrainian call for an immediate 30-day pause. Instead, he proposed a halt in attacks only on energy facilities. Peskov said the main focus of their talks with the US would be a possible resumption of a 2022 Black Sea grain deal ensuring safe navigation for Ukrainian farm exports via the Black Sea.
Ongoing hostilities
Both sides launch new drone attacks ahead of negotiations
Ukrainian officials said a Russian drone attack killed three civilians in Kyiv, including a five-year-old girl and her father. Ukraine's air force also said Russia had launched 147 drones at the country in its latest barrage. In response, Russia claimed it had repelled nearly 60 Ukrainian drones overnight. Despite ongoing hostilities, both sides continue their efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and end the conflict.