Today, the talk regarding a ceasefire in Ukraine between US and Russia in the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, officially began, with US aims for Black Sea maritime ceasefire to allow flow of shipping to enter. However, the area has not faced intensified military operation for a period of time.
The US national security adviser, Mike Waltz, stated on television that the talk will also include “the line of control,” “confidence-building measures”, and the return of Ukrainian children from Russia. Ukraine’s defence minister and head of the Ukrainian delegation, Rustem Umerov, also added that the topic of protecting energy facilities and critical infrastructure will be included.
According to a source that was briefed on the matter, Andrew Peek, a senior director at White House National Security Council, and Michael Anton, a senior State Department official, will lead the US side in this meeting.
Meanwhile, Grigory Karasin, the chairman of Russia’s Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Sergei Beseda, an advisor of the Federal Security Service’s director, will represent Russia’s side.
US President Donald Trump, who pushed for the end of this conflict, stated on Saturday that the effort to stop the further escalation were “somewhat under control”. However, many Europeans and Britain maintained their concern whether Putin would accept meaningful concessions or maintain his current demand, which he already seems to maximise.
Some in the NATO allies are even worried that the Russian president may invade another country. Nonetheless, US special envoy who recently met Putin, Steve Witkoff, reassured by stating on television that Putin did not want Europe since the situation is not the same as it was in WW2, and stated that he wanted peace.
