Overview

• U.S. and Russian delegations meet in Riyadh to discuss a potential ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict, with the Kremlin cautioning that talks will be complex and challenging.
• Key topics include halting attacks on energy infrastructure and resuming the Black Sea grain deal, which is critical for global food security.
• Ukraine has expressed readiness for a general ceasefire without conditions, while Russia emphasizes the difficulty of reaching agreements quickly.
• Military clashes persist, with Russian drone strikes on Ukrainian cities and Ukrainian operations targeting Russian territory, including reported destruction of Russian helicopters.
• The U.S. and Ukraine held 'productive' discussions prior to the U.S.-Russia talks, focusing on securing energy infrastructure and advancing toward a sustainable peace.