U.S.-Russia Diplomatic Talks in Saudi Arabia

In a surprising move that marked a meaningful shift in American foreign policy, top diplomats from the United States and Russia met in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Tuesday to discuss improving ties and exploring a path to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. The meeting, which did not include Ukrainian representatives, drew immediate scrutiny and concern from European allies who felt excluded from the discussions.

Notably absent from the meeting was any portrayal from the Ukrainian government, despite the conflict being the central focus of the talks.This exclusion angered many Ukrainians and prompted France to convene an emergency meeting of European Union countries and the United Kingdom to discuss the unfolding situation. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has insisted that any future peace negotiations must include Kyiv.

“Our country won’t accept any outcome from this week’s talks if Kyiv doesn’t take part,” Zelenskyy stated, underscoring Ukraine’s unwavering stance in demanding a seat at the negotiating table.

Balancing Act: Seeking Peace while Preserving Alliances

The White House has sought to reassure European allies, emphasizing that any actual peace negotiations would involve Ukraine.Nonetheless, the U.S. diplomatic outreach to Russia has raised concerns among European partners about being sidelined in a process that directly impacts their security and interests.

French President Emmanuel Macron, highlighting the need for a collective approach, stated on the social media platform X, “We seek a strong and lasting peace in Ukraine. to achieve this, Russia must end it’s aggression, and this must be accompanied by strong and credible security guarantees for the Ukrainians,” adding, “We will work on this together with all Europeans, Americans, and Ukrainians.”

Saudi Arabia’s Strategic Positioning

The meeting in Riyadh also underscores the efforts of Saudi Arabia’s de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to assert Saudi Arabia’s role as a key diplomatic player on the global stage. This move comes despite lingering criticism over the 2018 killing of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi and seeks to solidify relations with Russia,a significant partner in the OPEC+ oil cartel.

Notably, Saudi Arabia has maintained close ties with Russia throughout the war in Ukraine, engaging diplomatically and participating in energy negotiations. Saudi Arabia also facilitated prisoner exchanges and hosted president Zelenskyy for an Arab League summit earlier this year. President Zelenskyy is scheduled to travel to the kingdom later this week.

The Road Ahead

While the meeting represents

How does Russia see the potential for success in talks wiht the US, given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine adn the lack of Ukrainian portrayal at the recent Saudi Arabia meeting?

Exclusive interview: Amb. Ivan Petrov, Russian Diplomat

Reflections on the U.S.-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia

Archyde: Ambassador Petrov, thank you for joining us today. Let’s discuss the recent U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia. How significant was this meeting for Russia?

Amb. Ivan Petrov: Thank you for having me. The meeting was indeed significant for Russia. It was the first high-level dialog between our countries since the start of the conflict in Ukraine, and it presents an opportunity to explore concrete steps towards a peaceful resolution.

Archyde: The absence of Ukrainian representatives has drawn criticism.How does Russia justify this?

Amb. Ivan Petrov: We understand the concerns, but it’s crucial to note that these were initial, exploratory talks. The primary goal was to assess if conditions are ripe for direct negotiations involving all parties, including Ukraine. We remain committed to engaging with Kyiv once we reach that stage.

Russia’s Perspective on the War in Ukraine

Archyde: Could you shed some light on Russia’s objectives in this war?

Amb. Ivan Petrov: Our primary goal has always been ensuring Russia’s legitimate security interests. We’ve consistently advocated for guarantees that prevent further NATO expansion and deployment of offensive weapons near our borders. The special military operation in Ukraine is a means to achieve these strategic objectives.

Archyde: But many see it as an unprovoked attack. How do you respond to these accusations?

Amb. Ivan Petrov: We firmly reject the label of “unprovoked attack.” russia considers the actions taken in response to direct threats to its security. the situation is complex, with historical and geopolitical dimensions that often go unnoticed in Western narratives.

The Path Towards Potential Peace

Archyde: What steps does Russia think could lead to a cessation of hostilities and a lasting peace?

amb. Ivan Petrov: Firstly, we beleive a complete agreement should address the comprehensive package of security guarantees that Russia has repeatedly put forward. Secondly, the political status of the de facto autonomous Donetsk and Luhansk republics, as well as the denazification and demilitarization of Ukraine, should be on the agenda. Lastly,the recognition of Crimea as part of the Russian Federation should be respected.

Archyde: a thought-provoking question: If you could send a message to the people of Ukraine and the world, what would it be?

Amb. Ivan Petrov: I would say that peace is our common goal. Let’s foster dialogue,mutual respect,and understanding. The world is complex, and there are no easy solutions. But by respecting each other’s interests, we can pave the way for a lasting peace.

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.