Russia, US begin talks on Ukraine conflict

Riyadh

Russia and the United States commenced high-level talks in Riyadh on Monday to discuss solutions to the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The focus of the consultations is on a partial ceasefire and cessation of hostilities, aiming to bring an end to the ongoing war. This comes after similar discussions were held on Sunday between the US and Ukrainian delegations regarding a potential ceasefire.

The Russian delegation includes Grigory Karasin, Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, and Sergey Beseda, Advisor to the Director of the Federal Security Service (FSB). The US team is led by Michael Anton, Director of Policy Planning at the US State Department, and senior advisors to US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.

Waltz confirmed in an interview that the main topic of discussion will be a ceasefire in the Black Sea, allowing for the resumption of trade, including grain shipments through the region. This follows Russian and US discussions earlier about the revival of the Black Sea grain initiative.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the talks between the Ukrainian and US delegations "constructive and beneficial," with progress made on key issues. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov added that the discussions addressed military, diplomatic, and energy matters.

In a recent phone call, Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump agreed on the need for peace and a ceasefire, particularly in the Black Sea, setting the stage for further negotiations towards a full ceasefire and lasting peace.