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The discussions, which begin on Sunday, focus on proposals to safeguard energy facilities and critical infrastructure, with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov leading the Ukrainian delegation.
US President Donald Trump (right) is hoping for significant progress in bringing an end to the three-year conflict. (Reuters Photo)
UPDATED: Mar 23, 2025 23:34 IST
US and Ukrainian officials began talks in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, aimed at negotiating a partial ceasefire in the ongoing war with Russia. President Donald Trump is hoping for significant progress in bringing an end to the three-year conflict.
The discussions, which begin on Sunday, focus on proposals to safeguard energy facilities and critical infrastructure, with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov leading the Ukrainian delegation.
The meeting in Saudi Arabia comes a day after the US plans to hold separate talks with Ukrainian and Russian delegates on March 24. President Volodymyr Zelensky said on March 21 that Kyiv would send teams to discuss the specifics of a potential partial ceasefire with Russia, including the protection of energy facilities and infrastructure.
“We are implementing the President of Ukraine’s directive to bring a just peace closer and to strengthen security. The agenda includes proposals to protect energy facilities and critical infrastructure,” Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov wrote on X.
We’ve started the meeting with the American team in Riyadh. We are implementing the President of Ukraine’s directive to bring a just peace closer and to strengthen security. The agenda includes proposals to protect energy facilities and critical infrastructure. Today, we’re— Rustem Umerov (@rustem_umerov) March 23, 2025
Despite ongoing efforts for a temporary ceasefire, the latest Russian airstrike on Kyiv killed three civilians, including a child, and caused extensive damage. While Ukranian drones killed two in Russia, news agency AFP reported citing officials.
Meanwhile, US special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism about the talks, particularly regarding a ceasefire around the Black Sea, which could serve as a significant move toward a full ceasefire.
Witkoff proposed that a wider truce could emerge from an agreement to cease attacks on maritime shipping between the two nations. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s government has downplayed the chances of a swift resolution, stressing that the negotiations are still in their early stages.
The US aims to achieve a broader ceasefire by mid-April, with Security Adviser Mike Waltz noting that talks will address the situation on the front lines and the possibility of peacekeeping missions.
Despite ongoing attacks, Trump remains optimistic that the US can help lead both sides toward a lasting peace agreement.
Published By:
Aashish Vashistha
Published On:
Mar 23, 2025
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