As part of US President Donald Trump's diplomatic efforts to end the three-year war in Ukraine, American and Ukrainian delegations met in Saudi Arabia on Sunday to discuss protecting critical infrastructure and energy facilities. The discussions precede Monday’s US-Russia talks, where a Black Sea ceasefire will be a key focus.
US special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism about progress, stating, "I feel that (Russian President Vladimir Putin) wants peace," and suggesting that a maritime ceasefire could pave the way for a broader resolution. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the discussions "constructive" but stressed that real peace requires an order to halt attacks.
Last week, Putin agreed to Trump’s proposal for a 30-day pause in attacks on energy infrastructure, but both sides have reported continued strikes. A Russian drone attack on Kyiv overnight killed three people, while Russia claimed to have downed 59 Ukrainian drones, with one casualty in Rostov.
The US delegation, led by Andrew Peek from the White House National Security Council and Michael Anton from the State Department, will meet Russian representatives Grigory Karasin and Sergei Beseda on Monday. Talks will focus on ensuring safe Black Sea shipping, establishing a potential "line of control," and implementing peacekeeping measures.
Trump’s approach—favoring direct negotiations over continued military aid—has raised concerns among European allies, who fear a broader geopolitical deal with Russia could sideline European security. In response, Britain and France have increased military and logistical support for Ukraine.
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