Riyadh – US and Russian officials started ceasefire talks Monday. This follows talks between the US and Ukraine. US President Donald Trump seeks a quick end to the three-year war. He hopes talks lead to a ceasefire. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov called the discussion productive. He said talks addressed key points including energy.
Ceasefire Proposals Differ
Cross-border attacks continue despite the talks. The US and Russia offered different temporary plans. Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected a full 30-day pause. He suggested stopping attacks on energy facilities instead. Trump envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism about progress. He noted potential progress on a Black Sea ceasefire concerning ships.
Kremlin Cautious as Violence Continues
The Kremlin downplayed quick results. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said talks are only starting. He stated many details remain unresolved for implementing it. Moscow focuses on reviving the 2022 Black Sea grain deal. Russia left that deal in 2023. Meanwhile, violence persists in Ukraine. A Russian drone strike killed three civilians in Kyiv over the weekend. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged new pressure on Moscow. The Saudi-hosted talks occur as US-Russia relations improve under Trump. Peskov mentioned potential mutual benefits despite disagreements.
