As tensions continue to simmer over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the US-Russia peace talks have once again resumed, this time in Saudi Arabia. On Monday, American and Russian negotiators met behind closed doors to discuss ways to end the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has now entered its third year. A potential ceasefire, with a focus on halting attacks on energy infrastructure, is expected to be a key topic of discussion. This comes at a time when both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have shown tentative support for such a plan.
The White House has been actively pushing for a peace deal, hoping to broker a ceasefire agreement that could pave the way for lasting peace. However, as Ukraine faces relentless missile and drone attacks, the road to peace remains uncertain. With both sides locked in a bitter and bloody conflict, the negotiations in Riyadh are now seen as a crucial opportunity to ease tensions and bring about a breakthrough.
The Context: US-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia
The negotiations between the US and Russia are taking place in the backdrop of a prolonged and devastating war that has had severe global repercussions. The conflict in Ukraine began in February 2022 when Russia invaded its neighbouring country, leading to a humanitarian disaster and significant geopolitical instability. While the world has seen varying degrees of involvement and support for Ukraine, the US has consistently sided with Kyiv, providing both military and financial aid.
These new US-Russia talks aim to chart a path forward, with peace through diplomacy at the forefront. Steve Witkoff, a key envoy in these discussions, has underscored the importance of open communication, even with a regime as controversial as Putin’s. According to Witkoff, diplomacy is essential to clear misconceptions and achieve peace, stressing that the war cannot end without direct engagement.
What’s on the Table for Discussion in Riyadh?
One of the main items up for discussion during these US-Russia talks is a proposed pause on missile strikes aimed at Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. This could provide some relief to Ukraine’s devastated cities, where civilians have faced power cuts and severe shortages of essential resources.
While both Zelenskyy and Putin have shown support for the idea of a ceasefire, the specifics of how and when such a truce might occur are still unclear. Zelenskyy has made it clear that any ceasefire must be grounded in real action from Russia. He has called for Putin to issue a clear directive to halt the strikes, placing the responsibility for peace squarely on the Russian president’s shoulders. Ukraine has also maintained its right to continue launching long-range drone strikes into Russian territory, which complicates efforts for any lasting peace agreement.
The US-Russia meeting comes after a meeting between American and Ukrainian negotiators earlier in the weekend. Zelenskyy received a briefing on this meeting from Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, who called the discussions “quite useful.” But despite these efforts at diplomacy, Zelenskyy has made it clear that peace talks cannot succeed until Russia halts its aggression.
Trump’s Influence: A Complicating Factor?
As negotiations continue, US politics are also in play. Steve Witkoff, who has served as President Trump’s Middle East envoy, has expressed his hope for a peace deal that can be achieved through a combination of strong diplomacy and strategic pressure. Witkoff believes that Trump’s philosophy of peace through strength is the key to bringing all parties to the negotiating table.
However, his comments about Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian territories have raised eyebrows, particularly among Ukrainian officials. Witkoff referred to Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson as “Russian-speaking” areas, alluding to referenda where, according to him, the local population voted to join Russia. This narrative has been strongly contested by Western powers and international observers, who view these referenda as fraudulent and manipulated by Moscow.
Ukrainian officials have voiced their concerns over Witkoff’s remarks, with some suggesting that his views might align too closely with Russian propaganda. Oleksandr Merezhko, a member of the Ukrainian parliament, condemned the statements, suggesting that Witkoff could be working to gain Putin’s approval for Trump’s peace proposal. He also called on Trump to disavow Witkoff’s controversial stance.
What Does This Mean for Ukraine?
Ukraine’s leadership has expressed growing frustration with the rhetoric emerging from US diplomats like Witkoff, particularly when it comes to justifying Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Zelenskyy, in particular, has demanded tangible action from Putin to end the war, rather than mere diplomatic gestures.
The Ukrainian people have suffered immensely throughout this conflict, with thousands of lives lost, millions displaced, and widespread devastation across the country. As Russian airstrikes and drone attacks continue, the need for a ceasefire and peace agreement becomes more urgent.
The Broader Implications: Can Peace be Achieved?
The US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia represent a glimmer of hope for those who want to see the war in Ukraine end. However, the complex nature of the conflict, combined with the competing interests of the involved nations, means that peace is far from guaranteed. While Zelenskyy and his government are committed to defending their sovereignty, the ongoing negotiations indicate that both sides may be open to compromise if certain conditions are met.
This latest round of talks is also significant in light of the continued Russian aggression, which shows no signs of abating. Cross-border drone strikes, such as the ones carried out over the weekend, are a reminder of the persistent military tensions that undermine efforts for peace. As Russian missile attacks continue, the urgency of finding a diplomatic solution grows.
Conclusion: A Critical Moment for Peace
The US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia represent a crucial juncture in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. While both sides are open to dialogue, significant challenges remain in ensuring a lasting peace deal. The influence of US diplomacy, combined with Trump’s involvement, will play a key role in determining the outcome. As the White House pushes for a ceasefire, the world watches closely to see if these talks can lead to a tangible peace agreement that will finally bring an end to the devastating war in Ukraine.
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Photo credit: Euronews
