Ukraine is aiming for a partial ceasefire with Russia during upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia. The negotiations focus on halting strikes on energy sites, civilian infrastructure, and attacks in the Black Sea.
“We still want to agree on a ceasefire, at least on what we have proposed,” a Ukrainian source told AFP, referring to calls for a halt to attacks on critical infrastructure.
Momentum has been building towards a ceasefire, with the United States pressing both sides to reach an agreement. “Russia has paid a heavy price in the ongoing conflict, while Ukraine continues to suffer daily losses. Both sides have reached a point where seeking peace and reconciliation has become necessary,” Zhao Junjie, a researcher at the Institute of European Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told CGTN.
Both Russia and Ukraine have expressed support for a 30-day pause in strikes on energy infrastructure—a pause that Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered, but which Kyiv claims Moscow has already broken.
The Ukrainian delegation in Saudi Arabia will be led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, who will handle discussions on implementing the ceasefire, including which facilities would be protected and how to oversee the agreement.
On the Russian side, representatives include Grigory Karasin, chair of the Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Sergei Beseda, an adviser to the director of the Federal Security Service (FSB).
Meanwhile, in London, leaders discussed the possibility of deploying peacekeepers in Ukraine following a full ceasefire. French President Emmanuel Macron indicated willingness to extend France’s nuclear umbrella to the European Union. Russia accused Europe of becoming a “war party,” reflecting heightened tensions.
Experts warn that territorial disputes and control over nuclear power plants could spark intense disputes among Russia, Ukraine, and other involved nations. “Negotiating land division remains one of the most challenging aspects of the talks,” Zhao said. “It’s a zero-sum game.”
As negotiations continue, there is cautious optimism that the talks in Saudi Arabia could pave the way for de-escalation in the region.
