U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held peace talks in Riyadh regarding the Ukraine conflict, proposing a potential peace framework that may include a ceasefire and new elections. The absence of Ukrainian representatives during these discussions prompted concerns, as President Zelenskyy insists on Ukraine’s involvement in the process. European leaders are also considering military support for Ukraine, highlighting the complexities surrounding regional stability.
U.S. and Russian officials recently engaged in diplomatic discussions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, addressing the conflict in Ukraine without Ukrainian representation. Led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the talks aimed at developing a peace framework that includes a possible ceasefire and the organization of elections in Ukraine, potentially leading to a comprehensive peace agreement.
During these talks, State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce affirmed that the U.S. delegation is working to lay a foundation for future cooperation with Russia on several issues, including the ongoing conflict. High-level teams were proposed to commence negotiations aimed at resolving the war in Ukraine. Some reports indicated that the U.S. and Russia may push for new elections in Ukraine, given the perception that incumbent President Volodymyr Zelenskyy may not secure re-election.
Diplomatic sources remarked on President Putin’s confidence in electing a more pliable candidate in Ukraine, capable of facilitating negotiations. Meanwhile, Representative Brian Fitzpatrick from Pennsylvania expressed his disapproval of any attempts to enforce elections in Ukraine through social media. President Zelenskyy has made clear his stance that peace negotiations must include Ukrainian participation, a sentiment echoed by President Trump, who supports involving Ukraine in all discussions.
The meeting in Riyadh is being characterized as more of a “trust building” effort rather than a detailed negotiation session, as highlighted by Trump envoy Steve Witkoff. President Zelenskyy previously cautioned President Trump about trusting Putin, stating, “[Putin] is a liar” and asserting Putin’s lack of genuine interest in achieving peace. Additionally, the talks were notably void of European representatives, an important omission given the critical remarks from U.S. Vice President JD Vance regarding European allies at the Munich Security Conference.
As tensions in Ukraine persist, some European leaders are responding by preparing to bolster regional security. U.K. Prime Minister Kier Starmer indicated his readiness to deploy British troops in support of a peace arrangement to ensure Ukraine’s safety, stating, “any role in helping to guarantee Ukraine’s security is helping to guarantee the security of our continent.”
In conclusion, discussions between U.S. and Russian officials in Riyadh mark a significant step towards formulating a peace framework concerning Ukraine. Despite Ukraine’s absence, the talks suggest a potential strategy, including new elections and a ceasefire. Nonetheless, President Zelenskyy’s insistence on Ukrainian involvement emphasizes the importance of their representation in future negotiations as global leaders contemplate their roles in ensuring security in the region.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
