Ukraine–U.S. Talks in Saudi Arabia: New Details Revealed by Presidential Office

Ukrainian-American Delegations Discuss Peace in Saudi Arabia

The Office of the President of Ukraine has shared details about ongoing discussions between Ukrainian and American representatives held in Saudi Arabia. This was announced by Serhiy Leshchenko, advisor to the Head of the Presidential Office, during a broadcast of the "Unified News" national marathon.

"These are technical discussions. Negotiations like these usually aren't resolved overnight. In some cases, talks can stretch over months or even years, as we've seen with the Middle East peace process. So it's important not to expect immediate breakthroughs. Meetings are happening regularly, and not all of them will result in public declarations," Leshchenko stated.

He clarified that the talks between the U.S. and Ukrainian teams focused on two primary issues.

"We're talking about infrastructure and the safety of maritime operations. Specifically, both sides discussed a mutual freeze on attacks. We’re not targeting their sea-based or river-related infrastructure, and in return, they are not launching strikes on our critical ports, including Kherson, Mykolaiv, and the greater Odesa area," Leshchenko explained.

He also noted that the conversations touched on the return of Ukrainian children and the exchange of both military and civilian detainees.

According to Leshchenko, the Ukrainian envoys have remained in Saudi Arabia in order to engage in follow-up consultations with the U.S., once talks between American and Russian representatives conclude:

"These discussions are expected to continue for some time. But people shouldn’t expect flashy headlines after every round. These are working-level gatherings that could eventually lead to more significant high-level negotiations regarding peace in Ukraine."

He was asked how long the talks might go on and whether any outcomes can be expected by Easter, falling on April 20 this year.

Leshchenko responded that discussions surrounding a ceasefire on land have already been underway for two weeks.

"We haven’t yet reached even a cessation of strikes on infrastructure targets. So while Easter is symbolically meaningful, in the context of war it may not serve as a realistic deadline. If nothing else, reaching a halt in attacks on energy and infrastructure would still be a crucial achievement," he said, adding that predicting the course of diplomacy remains extremely difficult. At present, Russia continues to respond negatively, issuing ultimatums, and flexing military posturing that, he implied, is steadily diminishing in force each passing month.

Leshchenko concluded by noting that wars often end only after prolonged and difficult negotiations.

"We must remain committed to our goal of peace, though we should not expect it to come instantly. This should remind everyone that supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine remains essential," he emphasized.

Saudi Arabia Peace Talks Overview

As reported by UNIAN, Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov recently disclosed early insight into the meeting with the U.S. in Riyadh, describing it as "constructive and focused." Key topics on the agenda included the energy sector. The Ukrainian side aims to secure a just and lasting resolution to the conflict.

Additionally, confidential talks began today in Riyadh between delegations from the U.S. and Russia. Reports suggest the American side will seek progress concerning a ceasefire in the Black Sea region as well as broader de-escalation efforts in the war in Ukraine.