Ukraine Pursues Partial Ceasefire in Saudi Arabia Talks Amid Ongoing Conflict
Negotiations in Jeddah will involve US, Ukrainian, and Russian officials aiming for a truce in the prolonged war.
Ukraine is seeking a partial ceasefire during upcoming negotiations set to take place in Saudi Arabia, where American officials will conduct meetings separately with delegations from both Ukraine and Russia.
A source from Ukraine has indicated the desire to reach an agreement on a ceasefire based on proposals previously submitted.
The discussions, which are part of a broader initiative aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, are scheduled to resume on Monday in Jeddah, as confirmed by officials from both Ukrainian and Russian sides.
The Ukrainian delegation will be led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, who will focus on the technical aspects necessary for implementing any possible truce.
These talks build on earlier discussions that involved US and Russian high-ranking officials in the presence of Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan and National Security Advisor Mosaad Al-Aiban on March 11. During a press conference in Oslo, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that meetings are set to occur between Ukrainian and American officials, followed by separate dialogues with Russian representatives.
According to Zelenskyy, the meetings will allow for what he termed 'shuttle diplomacy,' with the United States engaging with each party to facilitate a dialogue aimed at peace.
He emphasized the structured approach to the negotiations, highlighting a systematic engagement between the involved nations.
The Russian delegation will comprise Grigory Karasin, who currently chairs the Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs, alongside Sergei Beseda, an adviser to the director of the Federal Security Service (FSB).
During a recent visit to Saudi Arabia, President Zelenskyy engaged in discussions with Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, expressing gratitude for Saudi efforts to mediate in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
He acknowledged the Kingdom's significant role in fostering peace initiatives not just in the region, but on a global scale, describing the dialogue as constructive and pivotal for peace efforts.