In an effort to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine high-stakes peace talks between Russia and the United States of America began on 18 February 2025 in Riyadh Saudi Arabia. This is particularly significant because it is the first in person meeting between top US and Russian diplomats since Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago. Secretary of State Marco Rubio National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff lead the US team while Sergey Lavrov and Yuri Ushakov lead the Russian group.
Before the talks began Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that President Vladimir Putin is open to negotiating with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "if necessary" but he also expressed skepticism about Zelensky's legitimacy as a negotiating partner. Peskov underlined that any deal would need a strong legal basis implying that Russia might not acknowledge Ukraine's leadership's complete authority in subsequent talks. Since Zelensky himself has said that Ukraine cannot accept any agreements signed without its participation this stance reflects larger worries about validity of negotiations carried out without Ukrainian participation.
These talks come as Kyiv and its European allies are growing increasingly concerned that U.S. President Donald Trump may pursue a peace deal that disregards Ukraine's basic requirements, including its aspirations to join NATO. Zelensky reiterated his adamant opposition to any negotiations that exclude Ukraine in interviews done before the talks. In promoting these talks the Saudi government is taking the lead and establishing itself as a mediator with plans to increase its diplomatic clout internationally.
As the negotiations go they are anticipated to address not only the Ukrainian crisis but also more general US and Russian ties including possible energy and economic cooperation. The results of these talks might have a big impact on international relations and regional stability especially if a deal is struck that takes into account the interests of both countries and makes sure Ukraine security concerns are sufficiently taken into account. International community is keeping a close eye on these crucial talks in hopes of reaching a settlement that will protect Ukraine territorial integrity and sovereignty while end the crisis.
