Riyadh Dialogue: US-Russia Talks Conclude with Four Key Agreements
The United States Department of State has confirmed that high-level talks between American and Russian officials in the Saudi Arabian capital, Riyadh, have concluded. The meeting lasted for four hours, including a lunch break, as diplomatic efforts continue to navigate global conflicts and geopolitical rivalries.
No Trump-Putin Meeting Next Week
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s foreign policy advisor, Yuri Ushakov, stated that there is no possibility of a meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in the coming week. However, he confirmed that both parties have agreed to set up a separate team of peace negotiators for further dialogue in the near future.
Zelensky Criticizes US-Russia Talks in Riyadh
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has openly criticized the negotiations in Riyadh, arguing that crucial discussions regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine were conducted without Ukrainian representation. Speaking at a press conference in Ankara alongside Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Zelensky expressed his disappointment, emphasizing that peace talks without Ukraine’s participation are unacceptable.
“We have extensively discussed global efforts to end the war with President Erdoğan,” Zelensky stated. “However, achieving lasting peace requires the inclusion of all involved parties. Excluding Ukraine from negotiations about its own war is a grave mistake.”
US Considers Easing Sanctions on Russia
In a significant development, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken hinted at the possibility of easing sanctions on Russia as part of efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict. Speaking to journalists, Blinken noted that discussions on reducing restrictions are underway but that no final decision has been made yet.
“We are not deciding what kind of concessions will be granted at this stage,” Blinken said. “However, it is clear that the European Union will also need to be part of the discussion, as they have imposed their own set of sanctions.”
Blinken further stated that the ultimate goal is to achieve a transparent and lasting resolution to the war, ensuring that all parties are involved in the process.
Ukraine’s Struggles Amid Diplomatic Manoeuvres
During the press conference in Turkey, President Zelensky appeared visibly exhausted and frustrated—a reflection of the immense pressure on his administration. With Ukraine’s sovereignty at stake, Zelensky is keenly aware that any negotiations conducted without Kyiv’s presence could significantly impact the war’s outcome.
As Russia and the US engage in behind-the-scenes diplomacy, Ukraine finds itself in an increasingly vulnerable position. Despite unwavering Western support, Zelensky understands that without continued American military and financial assistance, resisting Russian advances will become increasingly difficult.
The diplomatic landscape remains uncertain, and the outcome of these negotiations could shape the future of global geopolitics. As talks progress, the world watches closely, waiting to see whether these efforts will lead to a resolution or further entrench divisions in an already fragmented international order.
Key Agreements Reached in US-Russia Talks
The US and Russia have reached an agreement on four key points during their talks in Riyadh. According to details released by the US State Department, both countries have agreed to establish a consultative process aimed at reducing tensions and restoring diplomatic relations.
The US has stated that both nations have agreed to form high-level delegations to improve relations. Both sides also concurred that finding economic and strategic opportunities through peace in Ukraine is essential for moving forward.
The two nations have agreed on timely and phased negotiations to facilitate this process.
The United States also expressed its gratitude to Saudi Arabia for hosting the meeting.
