U.S. and Russia Engage in High-Stakes Talks on Ukraine Conflict in Saudi Arabia
In a significant diplomatic development, senior officials from the United States and Russia convened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on February 18, 2025, to discuss avenues for improving bilateral relations and negotiating an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine. This meeting, held at the historic Diriyah Palace, marks a pivotal shift in U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump's administration, aiming to reverse the previous stance of isolating Russia.
Key Participants and Agenda
The U.S. delegation was led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, accompanied by National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. On the Russian side, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov headed the delegation, with Kremlin foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov among the attendees. Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan and National Security Adviser Musaed al Alban were present at the commencement of the talks but departed early, underscoring the bilateral nature of the discussions.
The primary objectives outlined during the meeting included restoring embassy staffing levels, supporting peace negotiations in Ukraine, and exploring closer economic ties between the U.S. and Russia. Both nations expressed a commitment to addressing issues affecting their bilateral relationship and finding a sustainable path to resolve the conflict in Ukraine.
Exclusion of Ukrainian Representation
Notably, Ukrainian officials were absent from these initial discussions. This exclusion has raised concerns in Kyiv and among European allies, who fear that decisions made without Ukraine's involvement could undermine its sovereignty and interests. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that his country would not accept any outcomes from negotiations in which it did not participate. European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have called for inclusive negotiations, stressing the necessity of Ukraine's presence at the table to ensure a legitimate and lasting peace agreement.
International Reactions and European Concerns
The decision to hold bilateral talks without Ukrainian or broader European Union representation has led to a sense of unease among European nations. Former NATO official Stefanie Babst highlighted a growing perception that the U.S. may no longer be a steadfast ally to Europe, citing President Trump's perceived alignment with Russian interests. In response, European leaders are advocating for stronger defense cooperation and unity within the continent to address security challenges independently.
Saudi Arabia's Role as Host
Saudi Arabia's hosting of these talks signifies Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's ambition to position the kingdom as a central player in international diplomacy. The choice of Diriyah Palace, a site rich in historical significance, reflects Saudi Arabia's desire to be seen as a neutral ground conducive to high-stakes negotiations. This move also serves to enhance the kingdom's global image, especially in light of past controversies.
Ongoing Conflict and Humanitarian Impact
Despite the diplomatic efforts underway, the situation on the ground in Ukraine remains dire. Russian forces continue to launch drone attacks, with recent strikes causing civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. The persistence of hostilities underscores the urgency of achieving a comprehensive and inclusive peace agreement that addresses the root causes of the conflict and ensures the security and sovereignty of Ukraine.
In summary, the U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia represent a critical juncture in the quest to resolve the Ukraine conflict. The exclusion of Ukrainian and European representatives, however, raises questions about the legitimacy and potential effectiveness of any agreements reached. The international community continues to watch closely, advocating for a peace process that includes all relevant stakeholders to achieve a durable resolution.
