On 23 March 2025, high-level talks commenced in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, involving delegations from Ukraine and the United States, with subsequent discussions scheduled between US and European representatives. These negotiations are part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to establish a ceasefire in the protracted Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Agenda and Objectives
The primary focus of these talks is to negotiate a temporary ceasefire, particularly in the Black Sea region, to facilitate the safe passage of grain and fuel shipments. This initiative aims to alleviate global economic pressures resulting from disrupted supply chains due to the conflict. This may well be driven by the Saudi Arabian hosts to the talks, because Saudi Arabia relies heavily upon Ukrainian agricultural exports, as do a number of other Gulf countries.
US Special Envoy's Controversial Remarks
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has recently made statements that have raised eyebrows among international observers. In a Fox News interview on 22 March 2025, Witkoff expressed optimism about the negotiations, asserting that Russian President Vladimir Putin desires peace: something contraindicated by his unilateral undertaking to forego air strikes on civilian and energy infrastructure just. few days ago, that Russia subsequently immediately ignored in its entirety. Witkoff also praised Putin's leadership, a move that has unsettled officials in Kyiv, who question Washington's unwavering support in a war of aggression by Russia in which Ukraine is the victim.
Critics argue that Witkoff's comments echo Kremlin narratives, potentially undermining Ukraine's position in the talks. Concerns have been raised about possible infiltration or influence by Russian intelligence (FSB) in the Riyadh discussions, given Russia's history of employing covert tactics to sway diplomatic outcomes.
Tensions Over European Peacekeeping Proposals
Witkoff has also criticised efforts led by the United Kingdom to form a "coalition of the willing" aimed at deploying a European stabilisation or peacekeeping force to monitor any forthcoming ceasefire. Russia has historically opposed such initiatives, fearing that international forces could hinder their strategic objectives. This opposition stems from past experiences where Russia has been accused of violating ceasefires until confronted by formidable military deterrence.
Delegation Profiles
Ukraine: The Ukrainian delegation is led by Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, a seasoned diplomat known for his firm stance against Russian aggression and advocacy for Western support.
United States: The US team is headed by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, a real estate magnate turned diplomat under President Trump's administration. Witkoff's appointment has been controversial due to his lack of prior diplomatic experience and perceived pro-Russian sentiments.
Russia: The Russian delegation is led by Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, a veteran diplomat with extensive experience in arms control and US-Russia relations. Accompanying him is Kremlin advisor Dmitry Kozak, who has played a significant role in Russia's negotiations over eastern Ukraine in past years. Also present is Andrei Kartapolov, a senior member of the Russian State Duma's defence committee, known for his hawkish stance on Ukraine. The presence of intelligence-linked figures in the delegation has raised concerns that Russia may use these talks as a platform to push her strategic objectives rather than genuinely negotiate a ceasefire.
Assessment of the Talks' Seriousness
The composition of the delegations suggests a complex dynamic. Ukraine's representation by a high-ranking official like Kuleba underscores the gravity with which Kyiv approaches these talks. In contrast, the US delegation's leadership under Witkoff, whose recent statements have raised concerns, may indicate a less conventional approach to the negotiations.
Prospects for Ceasefire and Peace
While the initiation of talks is a positive step, achieving a lasting ceasefire remains uncertain. The divergent perspectives within the delegations, coupled with external influences, could impede consensus. Additionally ongoing military engagements, such as recent drone strikes on Kyiv resulting in civilian casualties, highlight the fragile situation on the ground.
In conclusion the Riyadh talks represent a critical juncture in the pursuit of peace in Ukraine. However, the success of these negotiations will depend on the genuine commitment of all parties involved and their ability to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape, and in particular pressure on Russa, in the form of actions on the ground (such as the "coalition of the willing") rather than mere agreements and documentation, which Russia has a history of ignoring unless compelled to comply with them.