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Ukrainian and U.S. officials convened in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential limited cease-fire in the ongoing conflict with Russia. Russian and U.S. representatives plan to talk today. Here’s what you should know about these talks.
The talks in Riyadh focused on temporary halts by both parties on strikes against energy infrastructure and safety for shipping in the Black Sea. A Ukrainian official stated the Kyiv delegation may have further talks with U.S. officials.
Steve Witcoff, who is President Trump’s personal envoy to Russian President Vladimir Putin, has emphasized that the ultimate aim is to achieve a 30-day full cease-fire allowing time for negotiations towards a permanent truce.
The road to a truce remains uncertain, with several hurdles. Both sides seem ready to continue fighting, with Moscow pressing for territorial control and ensuring Ukraine doesn’t join NATO. Kyiv stated they won’t agree to Kremlin’s demands, accusing Putin of delaying tactics.
Elsewhere, at least three people were killed during a large Russian drone attack on Kyiv, with Russia intensifying strikes on the capital in recent months.
Israel expanded its military campaign in Gaza into the north and south, with evacuation orders issued to those who recently returned home. The Israeli military targeted Hamas sites and infrastructure.
Gaza’s Health Ministry reported 39 deaths from Israeli bombardments in the previous day. Hamas announced the killing of a senior political bureau member, Salah al-Bardawil, by Israel. The Palestinian Civil Defense in Gaza warned of danger threatening over 50,000 people in the southern city of Rafah.
The Israeli cabinet introduced a no-confidence motion against their attorney general, beginning the process to oust her. The attorney general accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government of attempting to place itself “above the law.”
Many in Gaza observed Ramadan amidst dire circumstances, navigating this year’s holiday with heartbreak.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, now akin to a wartime leader, discussed the significant shifts in America’s relations with Europe and Russia and the pressing need for security and defense.
In other news, an investigation into an online scam uncovered a financial conglomerate in Cambodia called Huione Group.
Max Frankel, who escaped Nazi Germany to become a Pulitzer Prize-winning correspondent and The Times’ executive editor, passed away at age 94.
Mayhem, a Norwegian black metal band, celebrates their 40th anniversary and continues to explore the genre’s dark and aggressive themes.
That’s all for today. We welcome your feedback at briefing@nytimes.com. — Emmett
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/23/briefing/us-ukraine-talks-israel-gaza-starmer-profile.html
