Uncertainty Lingers as Russia Evaluates US Ceasefire Proposal Amid Intelligence Talks
Following the American proposal on Tuesday, March 11, for a 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow has remained notably silent, neither agreeing nor refusing the offer. Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, mentioned, "We do not rule out contacts with US representatives in the next few days." However, she did not confirm whether Steve Witkoff, Donald Trump's special envoy, would be traveling to Moscow.
Interestingly, Russian media reported that on the same day, Sergey Naryshkin, head of Russia's foreign intelligence service, initiated a phone conversation with CIA chief John Ratcliffe. This marked the first communication between the two officials since Trump returned to the White House on January 20, and it's a rare interaction between Russian and American intelligence services since the onset of Russia's offensive in Ukraine in February 2022.
While Trump indicated he might talk to Vladimir Putin later this week, the Kremlin has remained mum on the subject. Furthermore, the Kremlin spokesperson did not give any comments regarding the negotiations held between American and Ukrainian delegations in Saudi Arabia.
These developments have raised concerns, as expectations from Washington regarding a prompt and positive response from Russia to the ceasefire proposal seem unmet. Marco Rubio, the US Secretary of State, expressed hope for an expeditious and affirmative reaction from the Russian side.
As the world watches, the diplomatic landscape remains complex and fraught with tension, underscoring the ongoing struggles for resolution amid an extended conflict.
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