US and Russia Hold Ceasefire Talks in Saudi Arabia as Conflict Persists

Discussions focus on a Black Sea maritime ceasefire, with both sides proposing differing truce terms and continued hostilities complicating negotiations.

US and Russian officials are meeting in Riyadh on March 24 to discuss a partial ceasefire in the Ukraine war, following earlier talks between the US and Ukraine.
The talks aim to establish a Black Sea maritime ceasefire to ensure safe shipping, with hopes of expanding to a broader cessation of violence.
Russia has agreed in principle to a 30-day halt on energy infrastructure attacks, but broader ceasefire terms remain unresolved as both sides continue drone strikes.
Ukraine supports a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire, while Russia favors a narrower truce, highlighting significant gaps in their positions.
European allies express concerns over US outreach to Russia, fearing a shift in US foreign policy priorities and potential impacts on NATO unity.