**US and Russia Hold Secret Talks**
The US and Russia are holding secret talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The meetings started on March 24 and aim to discuss a possible ceasefire in the Black Sea.
**Concerns Over Moscow‘s Return to the Black Sea**
Romania and Bulgaria are worried that any deal between the US and Russia could restore Moscow’s influence in the Black Sea. Ukraine has been using drones and missiles to weaken Russia’s capabilities in the region, but a potential agreement could benefit Russia.
**Ukraine’s Drone Campaign**
Kyiv has successfully destroyed or disabled one-third of the Russian Black Sea Fleet during over three years of war. This campaign has also allowed Ukraine to reopen its shipping lanes despite Russia’s withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative in 2023.
**Technical Discussions Ongoing**
Details of a possible deal remain unclear as “technical” discussions are ongoing between US and Russian delegates. The talks follow President Vladimir Putin’s claim that he had agreed with former President Donald Trump to institute a 30-day pause on strikes against energy facilities.
**Ukraine Remains Skeptical**
Kyiv has backed the partial ceasefire but accused Russia of continuing its attacks against Ukrainian civilian infrastructure. Ukraine’s air defenses intercepted 57 out of 99 Russian drones launched overnight, including Shahed-type attack drones.
**More News**
Firefighters are still battling a fire at an oil depot in Russia after a drone attack on March 24. The meeting between US and Ukrainian delegations in Riyadh focused on a possible ceasefire in the Black Sea and a broader truce.