US and Ukrainian Officials to Meet for Ceasefire Talks in Saudi Arabia Ahead of Separate US-Russia Negotiations
Zelenskyy Urges Allies to Increase Pressure on Russia Amid Continued Attacks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has emphasized that Russian attacks remain a "daily reality" despite last week’s partial ceasefire agreement. Citing an overnight drone strike on Kyiv that killed at least three people and a Russian attack in Zaporizhzhia that claimed the lives of a family of three, he urged for stronger measures against Moscow.
In a post on X, Zelenskyy stated:
“These attacks are a daily reality. This week alone, over 1,580 guided aerial bombs, nearly 1,100 strike drones, and 15 missiles of various types were used against our people.
All of this weaponry contains at least 102,000 foreign components. That’s why sanctions against Russian terrorists must be more effective. Every loophole that allows them to bypass the sanctions regime must be eliminated.
New decisions and new pressure on Moscow are needed to bring an end to these strikes and this war. We must strengthen Ukraine and our army – with more air defense systems and real support. I thank all partners who understand this and continue to support Ukraine.”
Meanwhile, Russian officials reported that a Ukrainian drone attack in the Belgorod region killed a woman in the border village of Novostroyevka-Pervaya. Her daughter, who was driving the targeted car, was seriously injured, according to regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov.
US and Russia to Discuss Black Sea Grain Deal
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told Russian state television that Monday’s negotiations with the US would focus on the potential revival of the Black Sea grain deal. Russia withdrew from the Turkish-brokered agreement in July 2023, citing the West’s failure to ease sanctions on its agricultural exports. The collapse of the deal halted safe passage for cargo ships and led to a sharp decline in Ukraine’s grain exports.
Peskov acknowledged that talks with Washington would be "difficult," emphasizing that discussions were still at an early stage.
Trump-Putin Call Sparks Controversy Over Ceasefire Prospects
Following last week’s call between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, the White House stated that both leaders agreed on a phased peace process, beginning with an "energy and infrastructure ceasefire," followed by negotiations for a maritime ceasefire and, ultimately, a full ceasefire.
However, skepticism remains over the feasibility of a US-brokered truce. Putin has insisted that any deal must address what he calls the "root causes" of Russia’s invasion—primarily concerns over NATO expansion. Ukraine, on the other hand, remains firm in its pursuit of NATO membership, viewing it as essential for national security.
During his conversation with Trump, Putin reportedly demanded an end to Western military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv as a condition for a long-term agreement—terms that Zelenskyy has outright rejected.
What to Expect from Ceasefire Talks in Saudi Arabia
On Monday, delegations from Ukraine, Russia, and the US will meet in Riyadh for further discussions. Ukraine’s team, led by senior officials, will present a list of energy infrastructure sites that should be off-limits to Russian attacks. US representatives will then relay these discussions to the Russian negotiating team.
Notably, Russia’s delegation will be led by Sergei Beseda, a former FSB chief who played a key role in planning the 2022 invasion. His presence signals Moscow’s strategic approach to the negotiations.
The US aims to act as an intermediary, working toward a limited ceasefire while exploring broader peace terms. However, both Kyiv and Moscow have contested Washington’s portrayal of prior discussions with Trump, raising doubts about the likelihood of a rapid breakthrough.
Monday’s meeting in Saudi Arabia will be a critical test of whether diplomatic efforts can translate into tangible steps toward de-escalation—or if the conflict will continue unabated.
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