On Tuesday, Ukrainian and U.S. officials convened for a significant second session of negotiations in Saudi Arabia to explore a potential limited cease-fire. This meeting took place just one day after Russian and American delegations participated in similar discussions that lasted over 12 hours. The ongoing talks, facilitated by the U.S., are being held in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, and aim to establish a temporary moratorium on strikes targeting energy sites, along with a cease-fire in the Black Sea. This maritime route is crucial for both Ukraine and Russia for the export of essential commodities, marking a potential turning point toward a comprehensive cessation of hostilities in the ongoing war.
The first session of talks was held on Sunday, followed by a meeting with Russian officials on Monday. According to a Ukrainian official who requested anonymity to discuss the sensitive negotiations, discussions continued on Tuesday morning. Ukrainian media reported that this round of negotiations concluded after approximately one hour. The primary objective of these discussions has been to identify common ground between Kyiv and Moscow. However, both parties have expressed caution, advising against expectations of an imminent agreement.
The discussions in Riyadh were expected to center around the details of a tentative agreement aimed at temporarily halting strikes on energy infrastructure. However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that the primary focus of the talks was the safety of shipping in the Black Sea and the potential restoration of a grain deal established in 2022. This deal had facilitated the export of millions of tons of Ukrainian grain, a vital component for global food security.
Mr. Lavrov emphasized that Russia is open to reinstating the grain deal, but only if certain unspecified demands from Russia are met. This adds another layer of complexity to the negotiations, as both sides navigate their respective interests amidst the backdrop of ongoing conflict.
The outcome of these negotiations could hold significant implications for the future of the war in Ukraine, as efforts to establish a cease-fire and enhance maritime safety are critical steps toward achieving lasting peace in the region.
