Kremlin Confirms Upcoming U.S.-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia

Top Russian officials, including Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, will meet with U.S. counterparts in Saudi Arabia to discuss peace efforts regarding Ukraine. Attendance includes U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff. Concurrently, Ukrainian President Zelensky is visiting the UAE, focusing on the return of captives and economic partnerships.

Recent developments indicate that high-ranking Russian officials will meet with their U.S. counterparts in Saudi Arabia this week to discuss potential peace talks aimed at ending the conflict in Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and presidential adviser Yuri Ushakov will arrive in Riyadh for discussions scheduled on Tuesday.

The focus of these discussions includes revitalizing U.S.-Russia relations, negotiating strategies regarding Ukraine, and preparing for an anticipated 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, although he noted that “Nothing’s been finalized yet” regarding meeting details.

In addition to Rubio, Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and national security adviser Mike Waltz will participate in the talks, emphasizing the U.S. administration’s commitment to seeking resolutions in the region. Following a recent phone call between Trump and Putin, hints were dropped about a potential meeting in Saudi Arabia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also arrived in the UAE after attending the Munich Security Conference. Accompanied by First Lady Olena Zelenska, Zelensky aims to prioritize the return of captive citizens while exploring investment opportunities and humanitarian programs.

The UAE’s involvement is noteworthy, given its historical role in facilitating peace negotiations and prisoner exchanges. Notably, this is Zelensky’s first visit to the UAE since the onset of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The local news agency has not yet reported on his visit, which marks a surprising delay in coverage of a significant diplomatic event.

In summary, the upcoming talks between Russian and U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia signal a renewed effort to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. With key figures from both nations participating, including Marco Rubio, there is a potential for discussions to reshape diplomatic relations. Concurrently, President Zelensky’s visit to the UAE underscores the broader humanitarian and economic concerns related to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. The outcome of these meetings may influence future negotiations and peace initiatives.

Original Source: www.newsweek.com