High-level talks between the United States and Russia have commenced in Saudi Arabia, as both nations explore potential pathways to secure a peace deal over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Representatives from the US, led by Donald Trump’s delegation, and Russian officials are in Riyadh to negotiate terms, aiming for a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea as a preliminary step toward wider peace discussions.
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The discussions follow US President Donald Trump’s phone conversations with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin last week. The American delegation, spearheaded by special envoy Steve Witkoff, is focused on establishing a ceasefire that would facilitate the free movement of shipping in the Black Sea. Witkoff, speaking ahead of the talks, dismissed scepticism from European nations, stating he does not view Putin as a “bad guy” but rather as “super smart.” This has raised some concerns among the international community about the US approach to the talks.
The negotiations come after similar discussions with Ukrainian officials on Sunday, also held in Saudi Arabia. US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz emphasised that the talks will also cover the “line of control” between Ukraine and Russia, which includes discussions of potential peacekeeping measures. The US hopes the talks will lead to a 30-day truce that can serve as a foundation for more comprehensive peace negotiations.
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Despite these diplomatic efforts, significant challenges remain, as a wide divide exists between the positions of Russia, Ukraine, and the US. Former Russian ambassador to the UK, Grigory Karasin, and ex-FSB officer Sergey Beseda are leading the Russian delegation, marking their return to the international negotiating table in this crucial diplomatic engagement.
