US mission in Riyadh: Hope for a ceasefire in the Ukrainian war!

US mission in Riyadh: Hope for a ceasefire in the Ukrainian war!

On March 23, 2025, crucial talks between U.S. and Ukrainian officials aimed at a possible end to the Ukraine War took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umjerov confirmed the start of negotiations on Platform X. The talks are intended to focus on achieving a just peace and strengthening security, especially the protection of energy facilities and critical infrastructure. The Ukrainian delegation is made up of energy experts as well as military representatives from the naval and air forces.

How vienna.at Reportedly, US mediators are planning separate negotiations with representatives of Russia and Ukraine to reach a limited ceasefire. Negotiations between Russian and American negotiators are scheduled to take place in Riyadh on Monday to discuss possible steps towards a ceasefire. A first measure could be to refrain from attacks against energy systems in order to de-escalate the situation.

US diplomacy

US special envoy Keith Kellog spoke of shuttle diplomacy to bring the warring parties closer together. Media reports indicate that the US is seeking a comprehensive ceasefire by April 20. Donald Trump emphasized that “rational discussions” and positive relations with the leaders of Russia and Ukraine are central elements in negotiating an end to the war.

However, the situation remains tense. The Kremlin accused Ukraine of continuing to bomb Russian energy facilities and spoke of a breach of the agreements. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov also criticized Emmanuel Macron's comments about a nuclear umbrella, pointing out that Russia spends more than 40 percent of its budget on defense and security. US special envoy Steve Witkoff made clear that Putin has no intention of taking over all of Europe and underlined the need for communication with both sides to find a solution.

Peace plans and requirements

The path to a stable peace remains complex. The Ukrainian government has put forward various peace plans, including Zelensky's ten-point peace plan, which includes, among other things, nuclear security and the return of prisoners of war, as well as the "Victory Plan", which includes admission to NATO and support from partners for Ukraine's defense capability.

Russia, on the other hand, is demanding, among other things, that Ukraine refrain from joining NATO and recognize Crimea and the “people’s republics” of Donetsk and Luhansk. However, these demands are incompatible with Ukraine's previous proposals, making negotiations even more difficult.

In this context, the peace summit in Switzerland in June 2024 and the initiative of African heads of state and government offer further approaches for dialogue and negotiations towards a comprehensive peace. Meanwhile, countries like China are supporting the peace talks and calling for a move away from the Cold War mentality and respect for Ukraine's sovereignty.

Developments in Riyadh could be a turning point in the Ukraine conflict, but the challenges standing in the way of an agreement remain significant. Given the complex geopolitical situation, it is crucial that all parties return to the negotiating table and work constructively towards a solution.