Today’s Diplomatic Efforts

Talks have officially commenced in Saudi Arabia between US and Russian representatives, with the aim of crafting a potential peace agreement for Ukraine. The primary goal of today’s discussions is to establish a “ceasefire light” that specifically addresses issues related to the Black Sea, according to our Security correspondent, Frank Gardner. Reports indicate that Russia is interested in reviving the 2022 grain deal, which would allow Ukraine to export grain without the risk of attack, thereby facilitating a crucial economic lifeline for both nations.

Productive Conversations with Ukraine

In separate developments, productive discussions took place last night between the US delegation and Ukraine's representatives. Ukraine’s Defence Minister, Rustem Umerov, characterized the talks as “productive and focused,” reflecting the commitment from both sides to finding a resolution to the ongoing conflict. This highlights a strong cooperation between the US and Ukraine, showcasing the importance of international solidarity in these efforts.

Continued Hostilities

Despite the diplomatic activities in Riyadh, the situation on the ground remains tense. Attacks have persisted in both Ukraine and Russia. Ukrainian forces reported that they successfully shot down 57 out of 99 Russian drones during overnight operations, while Russia claimed to have intercepted 28 drones targeting its territory, illustrating the ongoing escalation in hostilities despite the peace talks.

Military Engagements Intensify

In a further escalation of the conflict, Ukraine's Special Operations Forces have reported the destruction of four military helicopters in Russia's Belgorod region, utilizing US-made Himars missiles. This action underscores the intensity of the military engagements occurring concurrently with the diplomatic efforts and emphasizes the challenging context in which these negotiations are taking place.

Stay tuned as we bring you the latest updates from the talks in Riyadh throughout the day, as both sides work toward a potential breakthrough in the pursuit of peace in the region.