U.S. and Russian officials wrapped up day-long talks on Monday focused on a narrow proposal for a ceasefire at sea between Kyiv and Moscow, part of a diplomatic effort that Washington hopes will help pave the way for broader peace negotiations.

U.S. officials are meeting with Russian officials Monday for talks in Saudi Arabia. USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes explains that experts warn federal spending cuts will make the country sicker and poorer as healthcare costs rise without new treatments.

The closed-door talks at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Riyadh follow U.S. consultations with a Ukrainian delegation on stabilizing the front lines and implementing a proposed 30-day armistice.