In a surprising diplomatic development, high-ranking officials from the United States and Russia convened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to discuss potential resolutions to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The meeting, which lasted over four hours, notably excluded Ukrainian representatives, raising concerns about the transparency and inclusivity of the peace process.
The U.S. delegation, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, engaged in extensive discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Both parties agreed to establish a high-level team dedicated to facilitating peace talks and exploring post-war economic opportunities. This move signifies a shift from previous U.S. strategies aimed at isolating Moscow, indicating a potential realignment in international relations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed strong disapproval of the talks, emphasizing that any negotiations conducted without Ukraine's involvement are unacceptable. He reiterated Ukraine's refusal to concede to Russian demands and highlighted the necessity of consulting strategic partners before engaging in any discussions with Russia. Zelenskyy's stance underscores the principle of "Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine," reflecting concerns over decisions made in Ukraine's absence.
European leaders have also voiced apprehension regarding the exclusion of Ukraine and European allies from these critical discussions. The sudden U.S.-Russian engagement has prompted fears of a diminished U.S. commitment to NATO and European security. In response, European nations are deliberating on enhancing their collective defense capabilities to address potential threats, emphasizing the importance of a unified approach to security in the region.
Amid these diplomatic maneuvers, Russia escalated military actions by launching multiple drone attacks targeting Kyiv, mere hours after the Riyadh talks. The Ukrainian Armed Forces successfully intercepted several drones over central Kyiv, including areas near significant landmarks. This aggressive act by Russia raises questions about its commitment to the peace process and further complicates the already volatile situation.
