US, Russa start Ukraine peace talks
The US and Russia are holding direct talks in Saudi Arabia about the war in Ukraine, marking the first face-to-face discussions between the two nations since Russia’s full-scale invasion. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is meeting Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Riyadh. Notably, Ukraine and European countries are not participating in the talks.
The US views the meeting as a chance to gauge Russia’s willingness to end the conflict, while Russia says its aim is to normalise relations with the US. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly stated that Ukraine will not recognise any agreements reached without its involvement.
European leaders are also pushing to be included in the peace discussions. In response to the talks, they held an emergency summit to discuss their next steps. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer indicated he would consider sending British troops to Ukraine if a lasting peace deal is achieved, although other European countries are more hesitant about military involvement.
The talks in Riyadh highlight ongoing diplomatic tensions and the complex international dynamics surrounding the war in Ukraine. As both the US and Russia explore potential resolutions, the exclusion of Ukraine and European nations raises questions about the legitimacy and effectiveness of any outcomes from the discussions.
Story via BBC
Image via TACC
