Saudi Arabia Facilitates US-Russia Peace Talks Amid Ukraine Exclusion Concerns
Saudi Arabia is set to host US-Russia talks to negotiate an end to the Ukraine War, with key US officials expected to attend. Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy expressed concerns about the country’s exclusion from the talks, emphasizing the need for consultations with strategic partners. The absence of Ukrainian representation could undermine efforts for a sustainable peace in the region.
Saudi Arabia will host US-Russia talks aimed at ending the Ukraine War, ongoing for three years. Despite its role in OPEC, Russia’s involvement highlights a broader diplomatic effort to address global concerns stemming from the conflict. Details of the talks remain vague, but US officials including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz are expected to attend.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy voiced concerns over Ukraine’s exclusion from the negotiations. At the Munich Security Conference, he stated, “We don’t have any papers, any invitations. It’s something strange to speak in this case without consulting with our strategic partners.” This reflects Ukraine’s stance towards engaging Russia without Western allies.
The lack of Ukrainian representation is raising tensions, as Ukrainian and EU officials oppose peace discussions without their input. Advisor Mykhaylo Podolyak remarked, “There are no negotiators who will represent Ukraine in Saudi Arabia.” EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stressed that a sustainable peace cannot occur without the involvement of both Ukraine and Europe.
The Ukraine conflict has significant implications for regional stability, including energy politics where Russia’s influence looms large. Saudi Arabia, leveraging its links to both Russia and the West, is strategically placed to play a mediating role. US officials remain optimistic about reaching a resolution, with Trump’s envoy asserting the potential for meaningful negotiations in the upcoming weeks.
Saudi Arabia’s upcoming US-Russia talks signify a critical diplomatic step towards resolving the Ukraine War, although the exclusion of Ukraine raises serious concerns. The lack of involvement from Ukrainian representatives jeopardizes the integrity and legitimacy of any negotiations. EU leaders emphasize the necessity of including Ukraine and Europe to achieve a durable solution, reflecting the broader geopolitical stakes at hand.
Original Source: www.financialexpress.com
