Ukrainian officials are cautiously optimistic about securing a partial ceasefire during U.S.-facilitated negotiations set to take place in Saudi Arabia next week. Delegations from Russia and Ukraine will meet separately with American mediators in Riyadh, signaling renewed diplomatic efforts to ease the protracted conflict.
A Ukrainian source familiar with the discussions told AFP the focus will be on halting strikes against energy facilities and civilian infrastructure, along with de-escalating tensions in the Black Sea. "We still want to agree on a ceasefire, at least on what we have proposed," the source stated, acknowledging the challenges of enforcing temporary solutions.
Momentum for a pause in hostilities has intensified as both nations face mounting losses. Russia recently declared a unilateral 30-day suspension of energy infrastructure strikes, but Kyiv claims attacks have continued. "Both sides have reached a point where seeking peace and reconciliation has become necessary," noted Zhao Junjie, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, in comments to CGTN.
U.S. pressure appears pivotal, with analysts suggesting Washington’s evolving stance could compel compromise. The Saudi-hosted talks follow months of international shuttle diplomacy, offering a neutral venue for delicate negotiations. While full resolution remains distant, stakeholders view limited ceasefires as potential confidence-building steps toward broader dialogue.
