- US and Russian negotiators hold ceasefire talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Discussions focus on halting long-range attacks and ensuring safe Black Sea shipping.
- Recent Russian drone strikes kill at least seven people in Kyiv.
- Zelenskyy calls for more pressure on Russia to stop hostilities.
- Ukraine’s railway system faces a massive cyberattack, disrupting online services.
US and Russian officials met in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday to discuss a partial ceasefire in Ukraine. The meeting followed earlier talks between US and Ukrainian delegates. Officials focused on pausing long-range attacks on energy sites and civilian areas. Black Sea security and safe shipping were also discussed.
The White House stressed that the ceasefire should protect both energy and civilian infrastructure. However, the Kremlin claimed the deal only covers energy facilities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy pushed for broader protections, including railways and ports. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov insisted that Russia’s commitment remains limited to energy sites.
Despite ongoing talks, fighting continues. On Saturday night, Russia launched a massive drone assault across Ukraine. At least seven civilians died, including a father and his five-year-old daughter in Kyiv. Ukraine’s military stated that Russian forces fired 99 drones. Out of those, 57 were intercepted.
The situation remains tense as both sides negotiate terms. The US and Ukraine seek stronger safeguards, while Russia keeps its focus on energy sites. Meanwhile, attacks persist, raising doubts about the ceasefire’s effectiveness.
Zelenskyy Urges International Pressure
In a televised address on Sunday, Zelenskyy reminded everyone that a ceasefire proposal has been available since March 11. He blamed Russia for dragging out the war and urged global leaders, including the US and Europe, to push the Kremlin harder. He stressed that peace depends on Putin ordering attacks to stop.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s state railway operator, Ukrzaliznytsia, reported a massive cyberattack on its online ticketing system. The attack disrupted services but did not affect train movements. The company assured passengers that recovery efforts were ongoing and highlighted Ukraine’s ability to withstand both physical and cyber threats.
Ceasefire negotiations in Saudi Arabia have become a key step toward ending the conflict. However, drone strikes, cyberattacks, and disagreements over ceasefire terms continue to complicate progress. Despite these challenges, many remain hopeful that diplomatic talks will bring lasting stability.