In a diplomatic move that has sparked widespread controversy, the United States and Russia are currently engaged in high-level peace talks in Saudi Arabia to discuss the future of Ukraine—without inviting Ukraine itself. The discussions, held in Riyadh, mark the most significant direct negotiations between Washington and Moscow since the war began, raising questions about Kyiv’s exclusion and the implications for the ongoing conflict.
Leading the delegations are U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. The talks reportedly focus on key issues such as military concessions, territorial disputes, security guarantees for Russia, and the possible lifting of economic sanctions. One of the most contentious points is Russia’s firm opposition to Ukraine joining NATO, a demand that has been a sticking point in previous failed negotiations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has strongly condemned his country's exclusion from the talks, insisting that any negotiations about Ukraine must include Ukraine. “Decisions about Ukraine cannot be made without Ukraine,” he said, calling the move a betrayal of diplomatic principles. Zelenskyy has repeatedly maintained that no peace deal can be legitimate unless it is directly negotiated with Kyiv’s involvement.
European leaders have also expressed concerns about being sidelined. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the importance of a united European stance, while Polish President Andrzej Duda warned that any deal reached without Ukraine and its European allies would be difficult to enforce and could destabilize the region. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen went even further, warning that the situation could lead to a geopolitical crisis worse than the Cold War.
The exclusion of Ukraine and Europe from these talks has raised speculation about Washington’s changing approach to the war. While the U.S. has been Kyiv’s strongest ally since the invasion began, some analysts believe the Biden administration is testing Russia’s willingness to negotiate directly before bringing Ukraine into the process. Others argue that the U.S. and Russia are attempting to carve out a framework for peace on their own terms, potentially pressuring Ukraine into accepting a settlement it may not fully agree with.
Despite the secrecy surrounding the discussions, sources suggest that both sides have agreed to form a high-level team to explore peace negotiations and post-war economic opportunities. However, no major breakthroughs have been announced, and skepticism remains high.
For now, Ukraine’s absence looms over the negotiations, reinforcing fears that great-power diplomacy is once again determining the fate of a smaller nation without its direct participation. Whether these talks will lead to a lasting peace or simply deepen divisions remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Zelenskyy and his European allies will not accept being sidelined without a fight.