In recent high-stakes negotiations held in Er-Riyadh, the delegations of the United States and Russia have reportedly made significant progress toward establishing a partial ceasefire and addressing key issues relating to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Following talks that spanned several hours on March 24, a source within the White House indicated that a ‘positive statement’ from the discussions is anticipated in the ‘near future,’ according to a Reuters report dated March 25, 2025.
At a time when diplomatic relations are critically strained, U.S. State Department spokeswoman Tami Bruce also noted that both Ukraine and Russia are ‘close to a complete cessation of hostilities’. This sentiment reflects ongoing efforts to negotiate a more stable situation amidst years of conflict that began over three years ago. Bruce highlighted that discussions regarding a ceasefire in the Black Sea remain a priority, which she referred to as a potentially groundbreaking development.
The talks in Er-Riyadh were characterized as ‘a rich, not simple dialogue,’ as expressed by Russian delegation member Grigory Karasin, who heads the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs. He emphasized that while not all issues were resolved during this round of talks, the dialogue was invaluable and served as a means to lay the groundwork for further negotiations.
Further details about the anticipated joint statement outline the possibility of a draft that was sent for cross-approval by senior officials in both Washington and Moscow. According to CBS News, this draft is expected to be made public at 11:00 AM Moscow time, following updates made during the lengthy negotiations.
Both Russian and American officials acknowledged that breakthroughs may not be imminent, though they express cautious optimism. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova insisted that substantial expectations should be tempered, asserting, ‘We need to understand that work is in progress on several fronts’. Moreover, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov echoed this thought, confirming that no documents would be signed as a result of these discussions.
The negotiations had spanned over ten hours, concluding late into the evening, and were conducted in a closed format at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Er-Riyadh. High-profile participants included senior members of both delegations, among them FSB Director Sergei Beseda and members of the U.S. National Security Council.
Setting the stage for these discussions, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the talks earlier, stating, ‘Now we are talking about territory, demarcation lines, and owning key energy infrastructure.’ Trump’s remarks suggest a broader agenda that includes energy resource management in Ukraine—a topic expected to be revisited in upcoming dialogues.
In an official capacity, communication about the negotiations has taken place simultaneously with consultations involving Ukrainian officials, which reportedly had been waiting for engagement with their U.S. counterparts throughout the talks. Ukrainian representatives led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov vocalized their expectations of engaging with the U.S. after the completion of the American-Russian dialogues. In a public statement, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky underscored the need for a robust approach to compel Russia toward peace, arguing, ‘Russia is the only entity dragging this war and tormenting our people.’
While tensions still loom over various issues related to the conflict, the mere act of engaging in prolonged negotiations marks a significant step toward resolving the ongoing humanitarian and geopolitical crisis. Although exact details remain elusive, both parties recognize the necessity for compromise to facilitate lasting peace.
Sources within the Russian delegation confirmed intentions to continue discussions in future sessions, with plans to potentially involve the UN and other international players. The ongoing efforts focus heavily on naval security in the Black Sea—a critical region for trade and military strategy.
Despite a backdrop of skepticism about immediate results, the recent discussions reflected a multifaceted approach to diplomacy, with various channels being explored to move toward a ceasefire. The complexities inherent in this conflict require sustained engagement, understanding, and, above all, commitment from involved parties to achieve a semblance of stability and peace.
In concluding remarks, it is clear that the global community is watching these developments closely. As talks continue and both sides navigate the intricate web of negotiations, the eyes of the world remain focused on Er-Riyadh, with hopes that this might be a turning point toward a resolution of one of the longest and most damaging conflicts of our time.
