The Kremlin has confirmed that Russian officials will meet U.S. counterparts in Saudi Arabia to discuss peace talks regarding Ukraine. The talks aim to revive U.S.-Russia relations and prepare for a potential meeting between Presidents Putin and Trump. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelensky visits the UAE to focus on humanitarian efforts and investment discussions.
According to the Kremlin, high-ranking Russian officials are scheduled to meet their U.S. counterparts in Saudi Arabia this week. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and presidential adviser Yuri Ushakov will fly to Riyadh on Monday, with talks planned for Tuesday, reflecting a potential thaw in relations.
The upcoming discussions will address the revival of U.S.-Russia relations, explore negotiations regarding the Ukraine conflict, and prepare for a possible meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is also traveling to Saudi Arabia and indicated that his trip had been planned prior to these discussions.
In addition to Rubio, Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and national security adviser Mike Waltz will be heading to Saudi Arabia. Following a recent phone call between Trump and Putin, the U.S. officials are keen to initiate talks, though Rubio cautioned that a single call cannot resolve the complexities of the ongoing war.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also arrived in the United Arab Emirates, marking his first visit since the war began, after attending the Munich Security Conference. Accompanied by First Lady Olena Zelenska, Zelensky intends to discuss the return of captives and potential investments, as well as a humanitarian program. The UAE has been considered a suitable location for peace negotiations, given its involvement in prior prisoner exchanges.
The planned talks in Saudi Arabia indicate a significant diplomatic movement regarding U.S.-Russia relations and the potential peace process for Ukraine. With leaders from both nations expected to engage in critical discussions, the outcomes could pave the way towards resolving ongoing tensions. Additionally, Zelensky’s visit to the UAE underscores the broader humanitarian issues and economic partnerships that are being prioritized amidst the conflict.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
