Kremlin Confirms U.S. Talks in Saudi Arabia Focused on Ukraine Conflict
The Kremlin has announced that top Russian officials will hold talks with U.S. representatives in Saudi Arabia to discuss peace initiatives regarding Ukraine. Key figures, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ukrainian President Zelensky, are also involved in related diplomatic activities this week, reflecting a concerted effort toward conflict resolution.
The Kremlin confirmed that senior Russian officials will engage in talks with U.S. representatives in Saudi Arabia, aiming to progress discussions on a possible resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov disclosed that Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and presidential adviser Yuri Ushakov are scheduled to arrive in Riyadh for meetings on Tuesday, as reported by the Associated Press.
The itinerary includes an exploration of U.S.-Russia relations, negotiations regarding the Ukraine situation, and preparations for a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump. Notably, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has departed Israel en route to Saudi Arabia, though he stated that discussions remain unconfirmed as of now.
Additionally, Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, along with national security adviser Mike Waltz, is expected to accompany Rubio to Saudi Arabia. Trump recently indicated the possibility of a meeting with Putin in the Kingdom, following a telephone conversation between the two leaders. Rubio emphasized that while dialogue is important, complex issues such as war cannot be resolved through a single communication.
Concurrently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in the United Arab Emirates after attending the Munich Security Conference in Germany. This trip marks his first visit to the UAE since the war commenced. The UAE, noted for its historical role in facilitating prisoner exchanges, is considered a potential venue for peace talks.
Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska’s visit is focused on repatriating their citizens and discussing economic partnerships, as well as implementing a significant humanitarian program. The state’s news agency WAM did not promptly report on his arrival, which raised eyebrows in the media.
In summary, key Russian officials are set to meet American counterparts in Saudi Arabia to discuss revitalizing U.S.-Russia relations and exploring negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine. Additionally, President Zelensky’s visit to the UAE aims to address the return of Ukrainian citizens and foster international collaborations. Both engagements highlight ongoing diplomatic efforts amid the complex geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
