US-Russia Talks on Ukraine War Exclude Kyiv, Spark Concerns

The US and Russia held diplomatic talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, aimed at ending the war in Ukraine and restoring bilateral relations. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy strongly criticized the discussions, stating that no negotiations should happen without Kyiv’s involvement. Speaking in Ankara, he emphasized that a just peace required participation from the US, Ukraine, and European allies, including the EU, the UK, and Turkey. Zelenskyy also postponed his planned visit to Saudi Arabia until March 10.

During the meeting, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov discussed restoring embassy staff in Washington and Moscow, forming a high-level team to support Ukraine peace talks, and exploring economic cooperation. Lavrov described the talks as productive, with both sides acknowledging each other's positions.

US President Donald Trump, in response to Ukraine’s concerns, showed little patience, asserting that Kyiv should have made a deal with Russia before the war began. He emphasized that Ukraine had been at war for three years and should have ended the conflict earlier. Trump’s national security adviser, Michael Waltz, and special Mideast envoy Steven Witkoff also attended the meeting, along with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s foreign affairs adviser, Yuri Ushakov.

The meeting marked a significant shift in US policy, departing from previous efforts under Joe Biden to isolate Russia. Rubio expressed optimism that ending the war could unlock new diplomatic and economic opportunities with Moscow. However, European allies reacted with concern, feeling sidelined in the discussions. France held an emergency meeting with EU nations and the UK to assess the implications.

Despite the talks, Russia continued its military operations, launching 176 drone attacks on Ukraine overnight. One drone strike in Dolynska injured a mother and her two children, prompting evacuations. The ongoing violence underscores Ukraine’s fears that negotiations without its presence could lead to unfavourable outcomes.

The meeting also showcased Saudi Arabia’s growing diplomatic ambitions. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman played a key role in facilitating the talks, strengthening Saudi Arabia’s influence in global geopolitics.

While no concrete decisions were made, the talks signalled a major shift in international relations, with the US appearing more open to direct engagement with Russia, raising concerns about the future of Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.