The ongoing war in Ukraine sees its ceasefire negotiations making progress during diplomatic talks between US and Ukraine representatives in Saudi Arabia with mediation from U.S. President Trump’s government. Ukrainian officials reported that their diplomatic talks with authorities were productive with a special emphasis on safeguarding their energy infrastructure from additional Russian strikes.
However, Ukraine’s Defense Minister, Rustem Umerov, stressed that real progress depends on Russian President Vladimir Putin issuing an order to stop the attacks. As Umerov put it, “But no matter what we say to our partners today, we need to get Russian President Vladimir Putin to give a real order to stop the strikes. Whoever brought this war must take it back.”
Violence Continues in Ukriane
Despite the ongoing negotiations, violence continues to rage in Ukraine. Russian drone strikes hit multiple regions, including Kyiv, where at least three people, including a child, were killed, and ten others were injured. The Ukrainian capital endured another night of airstrikes, with explosions heard across the city for several hours.
Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy, in response to the ongoing attacks, shared that just this week, “more than 1,580 guided aerial bombs, almost 1,100 strike drones, and 15 missiles of various types were used against our people.” Attacks also claimed lives in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia.
US Envoy Optimistic on Ceasefire Talks
Despite the devastation, there is cautious optimism among US officials. Steve Witkoff, special envoy for former President Trump, voiced hope for tangible progress in the talks, particularly regarding a ceasefire in the Black Sea. He mentioned, “I just don’t see that he wants to take all of Europe,” referring to Russian President Putin’s broader ambitions. Witkoff’s comments came ahead of a crucial meeting between Russian and US officials, expected to discuss further steps toward a potential ceasefire.
However, the Kremlin remains reserved about the talks, with Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for the Russian government, acknowledging the challenges ahead. He noted, “We are only at the beginning of this path,” indicating that significant hurdles remain in securing a resolution to the war. With the conflict showing no signs of easing, both sides remain entrenched in their positions, and a lasting peace remains elusive.
