The Ukrainian delegation continues to stay in Saudi Arabia for ongoing discussions with the United States, according to Serhiy Leshchenko, an adviser speaking to Ukrainian news agency Unian. Leshchenko emphasized that such negotiations are complex and can take months to yield significant outcomes. He explained that these discussions are not one-time events but require continuous dialogue to address various issues related to security and infrastructure.
Key Focus of the Talks
Leshchenko stated that the discussions in Riyadh revolve around infrastructure, shipping safety, and the possibility of a mutual ceasefire. He noted that while the talks are regular, they do not always lead to immediate public announcements or concrete agreements. When asked whether any substantial results could be expected by Easter (April 20), he acknowledged that while it is a symbolic date, the realities of war make any firm timeline uncertain.
Ukraine has been actively engaging with international partners to strengthen its position in these negotiations. The talks in Saudi Arabia are particularly significant as they involve high-level US diplomats working to mediate a potential ceasefire and improve security conditions. However, with Russia’s continued aggression, achieving a concrete resolution remains a challenge. Leshchenko reiterated that Ukraine remains committed to diplomatic efforts but is also prepared for prolonged negotiations.
Doubts About Russia’s Commitment
As peace negotiations continue between US and Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia, Oleksandr Merezhko, chair of Ukraine’s parliamentary foreign affairs committee, expressed skepticism about any ceasefire holding. He asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin remains the main obstacle to peace, stating that while Ukraine has accepted a ceasefire proposal from former US President Donald Trump, Russia has refused to comply.
Merezhko suggested that even a partial ceasefire focused on protecting energy infrastructure would be beneficial. However, he remained doubtful, citing previous instances where Putin made promises only to violate them soon after. He emphasized that Ukraine cannot trust Russia’s commitments without tangible actions and international guarantees. US special envoy Steve Witkoff maintained a hopeful stance, expressing optimism about making progress through these talks, though Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov tempered expectations, calling the negotiations a “beginning of the path.”
Cyber-Attack on Ukrainian Railways
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s railway network, Ukrzaliznytsia, continues to experience disruptions following a large-scale cyber-attack. The company reassured passengers that train operations remain intact and additional ticket offices have been opened to manage queues, which are currently around 15 minutes long. Ukrzaliznytsia described the attack as “very systemic, non-trivial, and multi-level” and confirmed its cooperation with Ukraine’s security services to address the situation.
Cyber-attacks have been a recurring issue throughout the war, with Ukraine’s critical infrastructure frequently targeted by Russian hackers. These attacks aim to disrupt essential services and create chaos within the country. Ukrainian officials believe that the cyber-attack on the railway network is part of a broader strategy by Russia to weaken Ukraine’s resilience. The government has been working closely with cybersecurity experts to fortify digital defenses and prevent future incidents.
Ukraine Claims Destruction of Russian Helicopters
Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces (SSO) claimed to have destroyed four Russian helicopters “behind enemy lines.” BBC Verify analyzed the footage shared on the SSO’s official X account, geolocating it to Russia’s Belgorod region, over 50 miles from Ukraine’s border. The footage, apparently captured by a drone, shows multiple explosions in a field near the settlement of Ivnya. While the exact timing of the attack remains unclear, the SSO claims that US-made HIMARS rocket systems were used in the strike.
This attack highlights Ukraine’s increasing use of precision strikes against Russian military assets. Ukrainian forces have been employing advanced weaponry, provided by Western allies, to target strategic Russian locations. Military analysts suggest that such operations are intended to disrupt Russia’s supply chains and weaken its offensive capabilities. However, Russia has downplayed the incident, stating that the footage does not provide definitive proof of the claimed destruction.
Russia’s Stance on Energy Infrastructure Attacks
In a recent statement, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov affirmed that Russian forces are adhering to President Putin’s directive not to target Ukraine’s energy facilities. However, Ukraine has repeatedly accused Russia of violating such commitments. Peskov stated that “there have been no other orders from the president yet” and insisted that Russia’s military follows all commands from its leadership. He also mentioned that the US is closely monitoring the situation and can draw its own conclusions.
Despite these assurances, Ukrainian officials remain wary. Previous Russian attacks have caused severe damage to Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leaving millions without power during harsh winter months. International observers have noted that while Russia occasionally honors ceasefires in specific areas, its broader strategy continues to involve targeting Ukraine’s critical facilities. The Ukrainian government has been working to reinforce its power grid and develop alternative energy sources to mitigate the impact of further attacks.
Black Sea Shipping Talks and the Grain Deal
Discussions regarding Black Sea shipping safety are also part of the ongoing diplomatic efforts in Riyadh. Peskov confirmed that these negotiations were initiated at the suggestion of former President Trump and received approval from President Putin. Both the US and Russia reportedly agree on the importance of maintaining security in the Black Sea, but practical implementation remains a challenge.
The Black Sea grain deal, initially agreed upon in July 2022, had allowed Ukrainian exports to pass through a designated corridor in exchange for certain sanctions relief. Following its expiration, Ukraine established an alternative route along the western Black Sea coastline. Ukrainian officials have expressed skepticism over the talks, arguing that they would primarily benefit Russia unless they include guarantees against attacks on Ukraine’s port infrastructure.
Ukraine is a major exporter of grain and maize, and any disruptions to its agricultural exports have global consequences. Many developing nations rely on Ukrainian grain shipments for food security. The resumption of the Black Sea initiative is seen as crucial to stabilizing global grain prices and ensuring steady supplies. However, Ukrainian opposition MP Oleksiy Goncharenko warned that unless Russia agrees to halt its attacks on port infrastructure, any new agreement would be largely one-sided in favor of Moscow.
Looking Ahead
While diplomatic efforts continue, both sides remain wary of each other’s intentions. Ukraine’s delegation in Riyadh underscores Kyiv’s commitment to seeking security assurances, but officials remain cautious about Russia’s reliability in honoring any agreements. With ongoing cyber threats, continued military engagements, and fragile negotiations, the path to a sustainable ceasefire remains uncertain.
For Ukraine, securing long-term international support remains a priority. The country continues to push for increased military aid and stronger diplomatic backing from Western allies. Meanwhile, Russia is likely to leverage the negotiations to buy time and reorganize its military strategies. The international community remains watchful, with hopes that ongoing talks may at least lead to incremental progress toward peace.
As Ukraine braces for further developments, it remains clear that the war is far from over. The resilience of the Ukrainian people, coupled with strategic alliances and military preparedness, will be key in navigating the uncertain future. The world will continue to watch closely as negotiations unfold and as both sides position themselves in the evolving geopolitical landscape.
