Riyadh: Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov has announced that Ukraine engaged in 'productive' discussions with a US delegation in Saudi Arabia. He emphasized that the meeting was focused on key issues, including energy. Umerov shared the outcomes of the meeting on X, reiterating Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's commitment to achieving a 'just and lasting peace' for Ukraine, which he noted is crucial for broader European stability.

According to Anadolu Agency, the talks come amid a backdrop of ongoing geopolitical negotiations and conflicts involving Ukraine. The dialogue in Saudi Arabia underscores the continuous diplomatic efforts by Ukraine to secure international support and collaboration in addressing the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict with Russia. These discussions are part of a larger framework of diplomatic engagements aimed at stabilizing the region and ensuring energy security.

In related developments, discussions between Russia and the US concerning the Black Sea Grain Initiative are expected to be challenging. The Kremlin has acknowledged the complexity of the upcoming talks in Riyadh, where delegations from Washington and Moscow will explore the potential resumption of the grain deal, initially signed in Istanbul in July 2022. The initiative was designed to facilitate grain exports from Ukrainian ports, which have been severely impacted by the conflict.

Meanwhile, in South Korea, the Constitutional Court has dismissed the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, allowing him to resume his role as acting president. This decision comes amid political instability following President Yoon Suk Yeol's suspension. The court's ruling was a 5-1 decision, overturning the National Assembly's move to impeach Han, who had faced accusations related to the brief imposition of martial law.