### US and Ukraine Seek Peace Progress in Riyadh Ahead of Russia Talks

As US and Ukrainian officials convene in Riyadh, hopes rise for a breakthrough to halt hostilities and foster peace with Russia.

In a pivotal meeting taking place in Riyadh, US negotiators are collaborating with Ukrainian representatives, aiming for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Simultaneously, discussions with Russian officials are set to begin on Monday, reflecting a coordinated effort to achieve a comprehensive peace agreement.

Despite these diplomatic endeavors, the path to peace remains uncertain. Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism, stating that "real progress" could emerge from the talks. Conversely, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov urged a cautious outlook, noting that this is merely the initial phase of negotiations.

The urgency of the talks is underscored by a recent Russian drone strike in Kyiv, which tragically resulted in the loss of three lives, including that of a five-year-old girl. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the necessity of influencing Putin to command a halt in violence, urging that the aggressor must also be the one to end the war.

In Riyadh, discussions led by Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov have been characterized as "technical," with key topics including the protection of energy infrastructure and Black Sea shipping routes. Russia has shown interest in re-establishing a grain export agreement with Ukraine contingent on sanctions relief. Meanwhile, both Ukraine and Russia have inflicted significant damage upon each other’s critical infrastructure, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

US President Donald Trump is pressing for a swift conclusion to the conflict, which has inflicted extensive casualties since it began. Ukraine’s leadership is eager to dispel any perceptions that they are hindering peace efforts, having quickly accepted a proposed comprehensive ceasefire—a proposal Moscow remains unwilling to embrace immediately.

Amidst these discussions, Witkoff's comments have drawn criticism, especially as he questioned Ukraine’s legitimacy and suggested that Putin could be trusted. His remarks stand in stark contrast to the broader international perspective on the conflict, which remains deeply entrenched in geopolitical complexities.

As the parties converge on Riyadh, the world watches closely, hoping for a significant breakthrough toward a peaceful resolution in a war that has devastated countless lives.