Negotiations between the U.S. and Russian delegations continue at The Ritz Carlton in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in an effort to establish a ceasefire agreement regarding the war in Ukraine. On March 24, 2025, the second round of negotiations commenced at 8:00 AM German time, marking a significant development in diplomatic relations amid ongoing hostilities. The new talks included separate delegations from Ukraine and Russia, representing a shift towards direct engagement to resolve the conflict.
U.S. President Donald Trump, fresh from a 2.5-hour phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressed optimism about finding a resolution but faced challenges in convincing Putin to agree to a 30-day ceasefire. During the calls, Trump stated that discussions were “very good and productive,” emphasizing their shared responsibility to work towards peace.
Russian negotiators, led by Sergey Beseda, the former head of the FSB's fifth service, are participating in these discussions. Beseda's history is marked by lapses related to the intelligence failures leading to the Ukraine invasion, which is casting doubt on Russia's commitment to effective negotiations. Accompanying Beseda is Grigory Karasin, a regional governor, indicating a mix of diplomatic and intelligence representation.
Keith Kellogg, Trump’s special envoy, highlighted that the U.S. is organizing technical groups for indirect negotiations. Reports from the discussions suggest that both sides are meeting in separate rooms within the hotel, practicing what has been termed “shuttle diplomacy.” This method allows for a more controlled approach as both sides negotiate their conditions.
However, expectations for immediate breakthroughs are tempered. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declared that citizens should not anticipate a quick resolution to sanctions against Russia, which will remain in place for the foreseeable future. Peskov characterized the ongoing negotiations as merely beginning, implying that many hurdles remain in discussions surrounding the Black Sea region's security and the pressing need for a ceasefire.
Trump's administration is pushing for a comprehensive agreement, considering several recent developments. In previous communications, Trump discussed a potential raw materials deal with Ukraine, highlighting a U.S. interest in energy and resource management during the negotiating process. He noted, “we are on a good path” to concluding the conflict, though specifics about the proposed deal remain vague.
Simultaneously, Moscow has pointed fingers at Kyiv regarding ceasefire violations. Reports from Russian state media cited that the Ukrainian government had bypassed the proposed 30-day ceasefire by attacking an oil depot in Russia. This event fueled tensions further, as Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of not adhering to promises of reduced hostility despite diplomatic overtures. This back-and-forth blaming showcases the difficulties in reaching an agreement that satisfies both parties.
With discussions poised to continue and the threat of escalation ever-present, both sides face pressure to achieve tangible results. The ongoing war has shifted dynamics within the region, prompting allies and global observers to closely monitor the situation. Notably, British officials have echoed concerns regarding the effectiveness of Russian engagement, pleading for appropriate security measures if peacekeeping forces are deployed.
As the U.S. prepares for ongoing negotiations in Riyadh, Zelensky has called upon allies to exert maximum pressure on Russia to uphold the terms of any potential agreements. He stated, “we need new decisions and pressure on Moscow to end these attacks and the war,” reflecting the urgency felt by Ukraine's leadership.
In conclusion, the unfolding diplomatic efforts in Riyadh represent a critical juncture in the quest for peace in Ukraine. With significant challenges evident, it will take sustained cooperation and dialogue from all parties to navigate the path towards a lasting resolution. All eyes will remain on these negotiations as they evolve over the coming weeks.
