Behind Closed Doors: Diplomacy in the Desert
High-stakes negotiations between the U.S. and Russia to address the Ukraine crisis began Tuesday in Saudi Arabia, marking a rare moment of direct dialogue amid escalating tensions. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio leads the American delegation, while Russia's team reportedly includes senior political and intelligence figures, though specifics remain undisclosed.
Saudi Arabia’s Mediation Role
Saudi Arabia is hosting and mediating the talks, with its national security adviser steering the process. This aligns with its growing diplomatic outreach, though Ukrainian and European officials are notably absent from this round. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed Ukrainian involvement will follow if progress is made.
A Dual-Track Approach
Parallel negotiations are unfolding this week in Kyiv, according to former Trump envoy Keith Kellogg. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is touring the Middle East to strengthen economic ties, emphasizing his government’s focus on both diplomacy and regional partnerships.
Zelenskyy’s Strategic Moves
Zelenskyy’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, announced Sunday, will focus on signing regional economic agreements—though he insists no meetings are planned with U.S. or Russian delegates. Analysts speculate the trip could indirectly influence the talks by shoring up international support for Kyiv.
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U.S.-Russia talks on Ukraine crisis set to begin in Saudi Arabia
cgtn.com
