U.S. and Russian diplomats, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, engaged in talks in Saudi Arabia to establish terms for a peace agreement regarding Ukraine, absent Ukrainian representatives. Proposed ideas include a ceasefire and new elections, while discussions around cooperation on various issues were confirmed. Critics, including Representative Brian Fitzpatrick and President Zelenskyy, raised concerns over the legitimacy and feasibility of these proposals amid an ongoing conflict.
U.S. and Russian officials engaged in diplomatic discussions in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, with no Ukrainian representatives in attendance. The talks were led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who are aiming to establish a peace agreement for Ukraine and potentially arrange a meeting between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. They proposed a framework involving a ceasefire followed by elections in Ukraine, leading to a formal peace treaty.
State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce confirmed that Rubio’s delegation is working to “lay the groundwork for cooperation” with Russia on multiple issues, not solely limited to Ukraine. They agreed to form “high-level teams” to explore a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Reports suggest that compelling Ukraine to conduct new elections may play a critical role in achieving a peace deal, as both nations assess the low chances of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s re-election.
Representative Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania has publicly opposed the notion of enforcing elections in Ukraine. President Zelenskyy has firmly stated that his country will not accept any peace terms negotiated solely by the U.S. and Russia without Ukrainian participation. Notably, President Trump has committed to ensuring Ukraine’s involvement in future discussions. Following news of the Riyadh proceedings, Zelenskyy shortened his Middle Eastern visit, opting to return to Kyiv instead of heading to Saudi Arabia.
Steve Witkoff, an envoy for Trump, indicated that the discussions in Riyadh are primarily about building trust rather than finalizing details of a peace agreement. President Zelenskyy cautioned Trump about trusting Putin, labeling him a “liar,” stating, “He does not want any peace.” Despite this, Zelenskyy expressed his belief that Putin might feel intimidated by Trump.
The absence of European representatives during these talks is noteworthy, especially following a recent criticism from Vice President JD Vance directed at European allies at the Munich Security Conference. Ongoing warfare in Ukraine coincides with these peace talks. U.K. Prime Minister Kier Starmer has suggested the possibility of deploying British troops in Ukraine as part of a security agreement, acknowledging the serious responsibility that entails but emphasizing the importance of safeguarding Ukraine’s stability for broader European security.
In summary, U.S. and Russian officials have commenced discussions in Saudi Arabia aimed at a peace framework for Ukraine that may involve new elections. The absence of Ukrainian officials raises concerns about legitimacy, as President Zelenskyy rejects negotiations without his country’s representation. The situation underscores a complex geopolitical landscape wherein trust-building and military security are intertwined, reflecting the ongoing dire circumstances faced by Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
