Washington, DC [US], March 26- The United States recently facilitated expert-level talks with delegations from both Russia and Ukraine in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from March 23 to 25. These meetings followed high-level discussions between US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, according to an official White House press release.
The talks primarily centered around enhancing security in the Black Sea, safeguarding commercial maritime activity, protecting energy infrastructure, and advancing broader diplomatic efforts to establish long-lasting peace. The discussions underscored Washington’s continued diplomatic engagement in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, reinforcing its commitment to regional stability.
In separate talks with the Russian delegation, the United States and Russia reached several agreements, particularly in maritime security. Both countries agreed to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea, eliminate the use of force in maritime operations, and prevent the militarisation of commercial vessels. Furthermore, the United States agreed to assist Russia in regaining access to global markets for agricultural and fertiliser exports. This includes measures to reduce maritime insurance costs and improve access to ports and payment systems.
Additionally, the US and Russia reaffirmed their commitment to a prior agreement between Presidents Trump and Putin, which prohibits strikes against energy infrastructure in both Russia and Ukraine. This is intended to mitigate hostilities and protect critical infrastructure.
Meanwhile, discussions with the Ukrainian delegation resulted in similar agreements aimed at securing the Black Sea and ensuring safe maritime trade. Both nations agreed to prevent the use of commercial vessels for military purposes and committed to upholding safe passage for maritime activity.
The US also reaffirmed its efforts to facilitate the exchange of prisoners of war, the release of detained civilians, and the return of Ukrainian children forcibly relocated during the conflict. Further measures were outlined to implement the commitment made by Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy to halt attacks on energy infrastructure in both Russia and Ukraine. Third-party nations were invited to assist in supporting the implementation of these agreements.
Both rounds of negotiations reinforced the shared goal of achieving long-term stability in the region. The United States reiterated President Trump’s directive that violence in the Russia-Ukraine conflict must end, emphasizing that halting hostilities is a critical first step toward a lasting peace settlement. The US pledged to continue facilitating diplomatic efforts between both Russia and Ukraine to ensure the successful implementation of the agreements made in Riyadh.
The United States also expressed gratitude to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his leadership in hosting and mediating these vital discussions. His diplomatic engagement was praised as crucial in fostering productive dialogue, further highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing role in international conflict resolution.