U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov meet in Riyadh to discuss reopening relations and negotiating a cease-fire in Ukraine, raising concerns among European leaders about their exclusion from early talks.
Key Insights
- Top U.S. and Russian officials are meeting in Saudi Arabia to discuss reopening relations and negotiating a Ukraine cease-fire.
- The talks follow a phone call between Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, signaling a shift in U.S. policy.
- European leaders express concern about being excluded from initial U.S.-Russia negotiations on Ukraine.
- A “consultation mechanism” has been established to address bilateral relationship issues, including re-staffing embassies.
- The meeting includes discussions on economic and investment opportunities post-conflict, with Russian businessman Kirill Dmitriev participating.
High-Level Diplomatic Efforts in Riyadh
In a significant diplomatic move, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov are meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The talks aim to reopen relations between the two nations and discuss a potential cease-fire in Ukraine. This meeting follows a recent phone call between Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, indicating a renewed effort to address longstanding tensions.
The choice of Saudi Arabia as the host country for these talks is noteworthy, as it enhances the kingdom’s diplomatic role and potentially improves its international image. The neutral ground provided by Riyadh may facilitate more open discussions between the U.S. and Russia, away from the immediate pressures of their respective domestic audiences.
Scope of Discussions and European Concerns
While the Ukraine conflict is a central topic, the talks are described as “purely bilateral” and will not include Ukrainian leadership. This approach has raised concerns among European leaders who feel excluded from negotiations that directly impact their security interests. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has insisted on Ukraine’s involvement in any peace talks.
“Ukraine will never accept deals made behind our backs without our involvement, and the same rule should apply to all of Europe,” he said during a Feb. 15 speech at the Munich Security Conference.
Despite these concerns, the U.S. has taken steps to involve European allies in future discussions. A questionnaire has been sent to European capitals regarding security guarantees for Kyiv, and some nations, including Germany, Sweden, and the UK, have expressed openness to sending peacekeeping forces to Ukraine with a clear mandate.
Economic Considerations and Future Prospects
The Riyadh talks also encompassed economic discussions, with Russian businessman Kirill Dmitriev participating to address the economic impact of sanctions and potential U.S.-Russia economic cooperation. This aspect of the negotiations highlights the complex interplay between geopolitical and economic interests in international relations.
As part of the diplomatic efforts, a “consultation mechanism” has been established to address bilateral relationship issues, including the re-staffing of embassies. Additionally, high-level teams will be appointed to work on ending the conflict in Ukraine in a sustainable manner. These steps indicate a commitment to long-term engagement and problem-solving between the U.S. and Russia.
While these diplomatic initiatives are underway, it’s important to note that Russia continues its military actions in Ukraine, with recent drone attacks causing damage and injuries. This ongoing conflict underscores the urgency and complexity of the peace negotiations taking place in Riyadh.
Sources:
- US, Russian Officials Meeting to Reopen Relations, Discuss Ukraine
- U.S., Russia hold first talks on Ukraine, sidelining NATO allies, Kyiv
- U.S., Russia agree to “begin working on a path” to end Ukraine war, in meeting in Saudi Arabia with no Ukrainians
- Russia and US agree to work toward ending Ukraine war in a remarkable diplomatic shift
