**US and Russia Talk in Riyadh**
The US and Russia are holding talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. These talks focus on the Black Sea Initiative, a plan to help Ukraine export grain.
**Key Issues**
The Black Sea Initiative is a crucial topic during these talks. This initiative aims to allow Ukraine to send agricultural products through the Black Sea despite the ongoing war. A similar agreement was made in 2022 but ended when Russia withdrew its support.
**Previous Agreements**
In 2022, the UN and Turkey helped broker an agreement allowing Ukraine to export grain via the Black Sea. This deal helped stabilize global food prices. However, it collapsed in July 2023 after Russia pulled out. Since then, Russian forces have targeted Ukrainian port infrastructure multiple times.
**Current Situation**
The talks come as Russia has attacked several foreign vessels and damaged civilian ships. Ukraine’s General Staff denies claims of shelling a key gas transit facility in Kursk Oblast.
**Expectations**
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova downplayed the meeting’s expectations, saying it should not lead to major breakthroughs. US and Russian delegations are discussing several issues.
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