In an effort to negotiate an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, US and Russian officials are set to meet in Saudi Arabia. This development follows a series of discussions led by US President Donald Trump, who has pledged to swiftly resolve the nearly three-year war.
Details of the Upcoming Talks
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with national security adviser Mike Waltz and White House Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, will arrive in Riyadh on 17 February 2024. Their agenda includes critical discussions with Russian officials, with the aim to pave the way for a possible meeting between President Trump and President Vladimir Putin.
- The talks are among the first direct engagements in years between the two nations.
- Rubio previously spoke with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, highlighting ongoing attempts to foster dialogue.
- Specifics about who the US officials will meet from Russia remain unclear.
Ukraine’s Stance on Peace Negotiations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his concerns about the peace talks, stating that Ukraine was not invited and would not engage directly with Russia without consulting strategic partners first. This reluctance underscores Ukraine’s apprehensions about past agreements made without their involvement.
Other Regional Considerations
Aside from the Ukraine discussions, the Emirates’ geopolitical landscape is evolving. Zelenskyy is visiting the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, but he clarified that he intends to avoid meetings with US or Russian officials during these trips.
Context of the Conflict
The ongoing war in Ukraine has resulted in substantial territorial control for Russia, which currently occupies about 20% of Ukraine. This situation remains precarious, as Kyiv grapples with military shortages while striving to retain its western territories. The conflict’s resolution is complicated by Russia’s demand for territorial concessions and Ukraine’s quest for NATO membership or equivalent security guarantees.
The US has affirmed its support for Ukraine, having provided significant military assistance since the war erupted. Future negotiations are expected to include discussions about Ukraine’s vast natural resources, potentially entailing US investments in critical minerals.
Overall, the forthcoming talks in Riyadh are poised to be a crucial step in addressing the longstanding conflict—and while optimism lingers, the challenges ahead remain daunting.