The US is employing shuttle diplomacy to mediate a cease-fire between Russia and Ukraine, leveraging a strategy that proved successful in the Bosnian War. Led by Christopher Hill, who was instrumental in the Dayton peace accords as deputy to Richard Holbrooke, the US has held separate meetings with both parties. This approach allowed for direct communication and helped narrow down differences between the two nations.
As part of the proposed ceasefire deal, the US has agreed to facilitate Russia's access to global markets by reducing maritime insurance costs and enhancing port access. However, Moscow is demanding sanctions relief before implementing the agreement, a condition rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as an attempt by Russia to "manipulate" agreements.
The US has proposed offering assistance in restoring Russia's market access, lowering maritime insurance costs, and improving port facilities in exchange for lifting sanctions. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed his willingness to collaborate with American partners to achieve an unconditional and reliable ceasefire. The US's shuttle diplomacy approach appears to be a crucial step towards resolving the conflict, as it enables direct communication between the parties involved.