Ceasefire Talks Begin in Riyadh
Talks aimed at exploring a potential peace deal in Ukraine are currently underway in Saudi Arabia between U.S. and Russian officials. These discussions follow earlier talks between Ukraine and the U.S., which Ukraine’s defense minister described as “productive and focused.”
Black Sea Security on the Agenda
The White House emphasized that the primary goal of the talks is to ensure security in the Black Sea, facilitating the free flow of shipping. The Kremlin confirmed that discussions on a Black Sea deal are part of the agenda.
Continued Drone Attacks
Amid the diplomatic efforts, hostilities persist on the ground. Overnight, Ukraine reported that Russia launched 99 attack drones, intensifying its strikes. Over the weekend, a Russian drone attack on Kyiv tragically claimed three lives, including that of a five-year-old child.
Controversial Remarks by U.S. Envoy
On the eve of the talks, Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy, dismissed U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s peace plans for Ukraine as “a posture and a pose.” Witkoff also praised Vladimir Putin, describing him as a “smart guy” and stating, “I don’t regard Putin as a bad guy. I just don’t see that he wants to take all of Europe.”
