US, Russia Begin Talks in Saudi Arabia, Focus on Black Sea Ceasefire

Officials from the United States and Russia began high-level talks in Saudi Arabia on Monday, aiming to advance negotiations toward a broader ceasefire in Ukraine. The discussions come as Washington prioritizes securing a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea to ensure the free movement of shipping before working toward a more comprehensive agreement.

The meeting follows separate U.S. talks with Ukrainian officials on Sunday, as President Donald Trump intensifies efforts to end the three-year conflict. Last week, Trump spoke directly with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, signaling renewed diplomatic momentum.

Leading the U.S. delegation are Andrew Peek, a senior director at the White House National Security Council, and Michael Anton. Russia is represented by Grigory Karasin, chair of the Federation Council’s Foreign Affairs Committee and a former diplomat, along with Sergei Beseda, an adviser to the director of the Federal Security Service.

The White House has emphasized that the primary objective of the talks is to establish stability in the Black Sea region, facilitating the safe passage of commercial and humanitarian vessels. The outcome of these negotiations is expected to shape future diplomatic engagements aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.