Russian negotiators aim for progress in Saudi talks while rejecting a US-Ukraine ceasefire proposal. They suggested a limited ceasefire focused on energy facility strikes instead. Ongoing aerial assaults, including a tragic incident in Zaporizhzhia, continue to escalate tensions. US negotiators are pursuing ‘shuttle diplomacy’, but breakthroughs have not yet occurred.
Russian negotiators are optimistic about making progress during the talks scheduled in Saudi Arabia. This meeting comes just before the United States convenes delegations from both Ukraine and Russia to address the ongoing conflict that has lasted for three years. Moscow has dismissed a joint proposal from the US and Ukraine for a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire, opting instead for a more limited ceasefire that focuses solely on halting aerial strikes targeting energy infrastructure.
Nonetheless, in the lead-up to these negotiations, both Ukraine and Russia have persisted with aerial assaults. A tragic incident occurring on Friday night involved a Russian airstrike on the city of Zaporizhzhia, resulting in the death of a family of three, which has further escalated tensions.
As negotiations unfold, US representatives will engage with both Ukrainian and Russian delegations separately in a format described by US envoy Keith Kellogg as “shuttle diplomacy.” This approach involves moving between hotel rooms to facilitate discussions. In spite of these diplomatic efforts, significant breakthroughs have yet to materialize, even with the active involvement of US President Donald Trump.
The upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia present an opportunity for Russian negotiators to pursue progress amid a backdrop of ongoing conflict. While Moscow has rejected a comprehensive ceasefire proposal in favor of a limited agreement, both sides have continued their military operations, resulting in tragic civilian casualties. The US-led negotiations continue in hopes of achieving a resolution, yet meaningful advancements remain elusive.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
