The United States is set to hold separate talks with Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential limited cease-fire, which could lead to a full stoppage of hostilities in the ongoing war. Both Russia and Ukraine have agreed to temporarily halt strikes on energy infrastructure, but the details and timeline of implementing this ceasefire remain to be determined.
The talks, to be mediated by American representatives, will focus on ironing out these specifics and ensuring safety for shipping in the Black Sea. While Moscow continues to assert maximalist positions, including territorial control and Ukraine’s exclusion from NATO, Kyiv has refused to concede to these demands, accusing Russia of stalling.
The negotiations in Riyadh will involve technical matters and discussions between diplomats and advisers, rather than high-ranking government officials. President Trump’s personal envoy to President Putin has expressed a desire for a 30-day full cease-fire to allow for permanent truce negotiations, but challenges lie in merging the diverging demands of both parties.
Despite the potential for agreement on energy and shipping issues, Russia’s demand for territorial concessions and Ukraine’s insistence on security guarantees make broader peace negotiations a tough feat. The White House has affirmed its commitment to continuing military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, despite Moscow’s conditions.
The path forward remains uncertain, with doubts on the sustainability of even a limited cease-fire. While discussions will continue in the Middle East, the widening gap between Moscow and Kyiv’s visions of a resolution poses significant obstacles to achieving lasting peace.
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