The United States is engaging in indirect negotiations with Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia on a ceasefire in the Black Sea as tensions persist in the region. On March 24, 2025, American officials will meet with a Russian delegation led by Grigory Karasin, the head of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, and Deputy Director of the Federal Security Service Sergei Beseda. This meeting follows the American-Ukrainian talks that took place the day before, where issues concerning the protection of energy facilities and critical infrastructure were discussed.
The main aim of these indirect negotiations, as stated by the White House, is to reach an agreement on halting hostilities in the Black Sea to facilitate free navigation for trade and humanitarian purposes. The negotiations are critical given the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, which have seen a resurgence of military activity recently. The discussions are set to address not only the practical front lines in the conflict but also confidence-building measures that could include the return of Ukrainian children.
U.S. envoy Stephen Whitekoff expressed optimism about the potential for progress, hinting at meaningful advancements to be announced during these talks. He stated on March 22, “I think you will see real progress on Monday.” However, political analysts and officials from both Kyiv and Moscow remain more cautious regarding the attainable outcomes. Sergey Taran, a Ukrainian political scientist, expressed reservations, saying, “The maximum result is a pause in hostilities, but this is still unknown because the negotiations may drag on for a month or two.”
In a phone conversation on the same day, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke with UAE President Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, expressing appreciation for the UAE's role in mediating prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine. The dialogue highlighted the importance of stabilization efforts in the current geopolitical climate, as both leaders acknowledged the pressing need for continued dialogue regarding the Ukrainian conflict.
Despite the diplomatic efforts led by the U.S., military engagements persist, with the Russian army intensifying its offensive in Pokrovsk. Local reports indicate that innocent civilians are bearing the brunt of the renewed hostilities, inciting mass protests in Turkey following the arrest of Istanbul's mayor for alleged corruption. In ironic contrast to the ongoing negotiations, the tragic elements of war continue to unfold, prompting calls for urgent action.
The negotiations in Riyadh also reference a previous telephone conversation between Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, where both leaders discussed a proposed 30-day ceasefire regarding attacks on energy infrastructure. However, as Trump noted, clarifying agreements has proven to be challenging amid ongoing attacks on such facilities by Russian forces.
The delegation's meetings in Riyadh are intended to cement a framework for future talks, but the direct interactions between Russian and Ukrainian diplomats are not on the agenda. Instead, U.S. representatives will conduct separate discussions with each side, a method dubbed “shuttle diplomacy.” This format has raised hopes for enhancing communication clarity, though skepticism remains due to the prolonged history of inconclusive negotiations.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky underscored the necessity for new strategies and increased pressure on Russia to ensure a cessation of attacks. Addressing those at the negotiations, he expressed a cautious optimism, referring to the discussions with American representatives as “completely constructive” and “useful.” He seized the moment to reiterate the pressing demands that accompanied the ongoing conflict’s tragic reality.
As the discussions unfold, both Russia and Ukraine must consider the broader implications of ongoing hostilities and the urgent need for a breakthrough in securing peace. While the U.S. remains committed to facilitating dialogue, the actual resolution may require significant time and effort amid the myriad of challenges that surround the ceaseless conflict.
In summary, with the global community watching closely, all eyes are on the outcomes of these negotiations, hoping that they might bring about a semblance of relief to the affected populations and lead to a sustainable resolution to the crisis in Ukraine.
