U.S.-Russia Talks in Riyadh Target Black Sea Ceasefire Amid Escalating Strikes

U.S. and Russian officials concluded high-stakes talks in Riyadh on Monday, aiming for a maritime ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea. The discussions, attended by Ukrainian representatives on the sidelines, are part of a broader U.S. diplomatic effort led by President Donald Trump to end the three-year conflict.

Despite the negotiations, Russian missile strikes hit Sumy in northeastern Ukraine, injuring at least 88 people and damaging a school and hospital. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned Russia’s ongoing attacks, calling them contradictory to peace efforts.

The talks, led by Andrew Peek of the White House and Grigory Karasin from Russia, focused on a draft agreement for maritime peace, potentially paving the way for broader negotiations. A White House official expressed optimism, hinting at a “positive announcement” soon.

Trump, who recently shifted to a less confrontational stance toward Moscow, has proposed a 30-day ceasefire, though Russia has only agreed to a pause in attacks on energy infrastructure. Discussions also touched on territorial control, power plant ownership, and lines of demarcation.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed no formal agreement was signed but said talks addressed key "irritants" in U.S.-Russia relations. While Trump praised Putin’s involvement, European powers remain skeptical of Russia’s intentions, citing its ongoing demand for Ukraine to abandon NATO ambitions and cede occupied territories.

National Security Adviser Mike Waltz confirmed that U.S., Russian, and Ukrainian teams were present in Riyadh and also discussed front-line verification and peacekeeping options. Although maritime battles have been limited recently, a Black Sea truce would support safe shipping routes and Ukrainian exports, seen as a critical confidence-building step toward peace.