US-Ukraine Talks Begin in Saudi Arabia Amid Kremlin Warnings and Ongoing Attacks

On March 23, 2025, U.S. and Ukrainian officials commenced talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, aiming to halt Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump seeks a rapid resolution, with envoy Steve Witkoff expressing optimism about achieving a Black Sea ceasefire as a precursor to a comprehensive truce. However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov tempered expectations, acknowledging the initiation of discussions but cautioning about “difficult negotiations” ahead. Concurrently, Russian drone attacks on Kyiv resulted in civilian casualties, underscoring the urgency of the talks.