Top Russian and U.S. officials are scheduled to meet in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday to discuss ways to improve their relations and seek an end to the conflict in Ukraine. This meeting marks a significant step in their diplomatic engagement since Russia's invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago, with the aim of setting the stage for a potential meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Earlier this month, President Trump announced a shift in U.S. policy towards Ukraine and Russia, indicating a willingness to initiate negotiations to resolve the ongoing war. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Putin's foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov arrived in Riyadh for the talks, which are expected to be bilateral and exclude Ukrainian officials.
The U.S. delegation, comprising Secretary of State Marco Rubio, national security adviser Mike Waltz, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, will engage with the Russian counterparts. The recent diplomatic efforts by the U.S. have prompted concerns among Ukraine and its allies, leading to France convening an emergency meeting of EU countries and the U.K. to strategize their response.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of Ukrainian participation in any negotiations, stating that talks between the U.S. and Russia would be futile without Ukrainian involvement. The Russian side, represented by Kirill Dmitriev, stressed the significance of the meeting in fostering better U.S.-Russia relations and addressing global challenges.
The talks are viewed as a crucial step for Saudi Arabia, positioning itself as a mediator in international diplomacy. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has actively pursued a role in facilitating diplomatic discussions, including prisoner negotiations and hosting international summits. The summit in Riyadh is seen as an opportunity to enhance Saudi Arabia's global standing and showcase its positive influence on international affairs.
Hosting the talks also serves to counter recent criticisms directed at Saudi Arabia, particularly regarding its relationship with the U.S. and its stance on regional conflicts. The summit in Riyadh is expected to draw attention from around the world, highlighting the kingdom's diplomatic efforts and its role in promoting peace and stability.
