RIYADH: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio meets Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Saudi Arabia this morning.
The talks aim to explore ways to end the ongoing war in Ukraine.
This is the most significant discussion since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
The meeting follows an agreement between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin to start negotiations last week.
The US calls this a “first step” in assessing Russia’s willingness to negotiate peace.
Differing Agendas
Washington insists the talks are not official negotiations but a test of Russia’s intentions.
Moscow, however, says discussions will focus on restoring US-Russia relations.
The two sides hold different expectations regarding the purpose of the meeting.
The outcome may shape future diplomatic efforts concerning the conflict.
No concrete agreements are expected at this stage.
Ukraine Excluded
Ukraine was not invited to the talks, sparking strong opposition from President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Zelensky insists that any peace deal must include Ukraine’s participation.
He refuses to recognize negotiations that exclude his country’s government.
Ukrainian officials view the meeting as an unacceptable move that disregards their sovereignty.
This exclusion raises concerns about the legitimacy of any potential agreements.
European Concerns
No European representatives are present at the Saudi Arabia meeting.
The UK and EU leaders gathered for emergency discussions in Paris yesterday.
They emphasize the importance of their role in any peace negotiations.
Their absence signals potential divisions in Western diplomatic approaches.
Uncertain Outcome
The meeting in Saudi Arabia marks a critical moment in global diplomacy.
Russia and the US remain far apart on key issues regarding Ukraine.
Observers are watching closely for signs of progress or deadlock.
The international community remains divided on how to handle the war.
Future discussions may depend on the results of today’s meeting.
