Tensions Rise as Ukrainian and Russian Delegations Prepare for Talks in Saudi Arabia Amid Ongoing Attacks
Ukrainian and Russian delegations are gearing up for their respective meetings with U.S. officials on Monday in Saudi Arabia. This comes as both sides prepare to outline a framework for partial ceasefires, marking preliminary steps toward a total truce that Washington hopes to establish in the upcoming weeks.
However, the backdrop of ongoing violence complicates these diplomatic efforts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported on Sunday that at least three individuals, including a five-year-old girl, have died due to recent Russian airstrikes in Kiev. In the past week alone, Zelensky noted that Russia has launched nearly 150 attack drones, further escalating the already critical situation in the Ukrainian capital.
The toll from these strikes is staggering; more than 1,580 guided aerial bombs, nearly 1,100 attack drones, and 15 missiles of varying types have been deployed by Russian forces in a matter of days. Zelensky has condemned the foreign manufacturing of these military projectiles, arguing that sanctions targeting Russian aggressors must be strengthened. He called for the elimination of any legal loopholes that allow such evasion of penalties.
As the Ukrainian delegation heads to Saudi Arabia, they remain firm in their stance—there will be no direct meetings with the Russian negotiating team. Ukrainian authorities highlighted the importance of U.S. envoys acting as intermediaries to facilitate discussion. This follows a previous meeting on March 11 in Jeddah, where negotiators from Ukraine and the United States reached an agreement aimed at suspending attacks on energy infrastructure for 30 days. However, this goal of a temporary halt appears increasingly doubtful in light of the recent and intensified airstrikes exchanged between the two nations.
The anticipated talks in Saudi Arabia could be a pivotal moment in the months-long conflict as both sides attempt to navigate their way towards a peace agreement amidst rising civilian casualties and destruction. The international community watches closely, hoping for a significant breakthrough as the humanitarian crisis deepens in Ukraine. Amid these optimistic discussions, the shadow of violence looms large, challenging the path to peace.
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