Negotiators from the United States and Russia have started talks in Saudi Arabia as they aim to make progress towards a broad ceasefire in Ukraine, with the resumption of the Black Sea grain deal and a continued pause in attacks against energy and civilian infrastructure high on the agenda.

Ukraine ties strained after a tense Oval Office meeting, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is emerging as a key power broker. As Ukrainian officials meet U.S.counterparts in Jeddah for crucial peace talks,