Mon Mar 24 10:02:29 UTC 2025: ## US-Mediated Talks on Ukraine Ceasefire Begin in Riyadh Amidst Continued Russian Attacks
**Riyadh, Saudi Arabia/Kyiv, Ukraine – March 24, 2025** – US-mediated talks between Russian and US negotiators commenced in Riyadh on Monday, aiming for a partial ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. These discussions follow separate meetings between US and Ukrainian officials. The proposed ceasefire would focus on halting long-range attacks on energy facilities and civilian infrastructure, and ensuring safe Black Sea shipping.
While a preliminary agreement on a limited ceasefire was reached earlier this week following conversations between Presidents Trump (US), Zelenskyy (Ukraine), and Putin (Russia), disagreements persist over the scope of the truce. Russia maintains the agreement only covers energy infrastructure, while Ukraine seeks broader protection for railways and ports. Accusations of ceasefire violations have been exchanged, with Russia blaming Ukraine for an attack on a gas metering station and Ukraine refuting these claims.
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Russia launched a significant drone attack on Ukraine overnight Saturday, resulting in at least seven deaths, including a child. President Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine’s openness to a full 30-day ceasefire, contrasting this with Russia’s demands for a halt to arms supplies to Ukraine and a suspension of military mobilization. Mr. Zelenskyy stressed the need for increased international pressure on Russia to end the attacks.
The talks in Riyadh are expected to yield progress, particularly regarding a Black Sea ceasefire, according to US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. Meanwhile, Ukraine reported a significant cyberattack targeting its state railway operator, Ukrzaliznytsia, though train operations remain unaffected. Further overnight Russian drone attacks resulted in injuries and damage across multiple Ukrainian regions.
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