The United States and Ukraine held technical-level talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from March 23-25. These discussions were in line with the earlier presidential-level talks between President Donald J. Trump and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Several agreements emerged from these discussions. The United States and Ukraine agreed to ensure safe navigation, eliminate the use of force, and prevent commercial vessels from being used for military purposes in the Black Sea. Additionally, both countries are committed to facilitating the exchange of prisoners of war, releasing civilian detainees, and returning forcibly transferred Ukrainian children.
Another significant outcome was the agreement to develop measures that would implement a ban on strikes against energy facilities in Russia and Ukraine as per the prior agreement between President Trump and President Zelenskyy. Both nations also expressed their openness to support from third countries in implementing these energy and maritime agreements.
The United States emphasized President Trump's call for an end to killings on both sides of the Russia-Ukraine conflict as a step toward a lasting peace settlement. The U.S. will continue its role in facilitating negotiations aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution based on the agreements reached in Riyadh.
Finally, gratitude was extended by the United States to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his leadership and hospitality during these discussions in Saudi Arabia.