RIYADH, Feb 18 – In a notable diplomatic development, the United States and Russia have agreed to take crucial steps toward ending the ongoing war in Ukraine, marking the first high-level talks on the conflict since Russia’s invasion in 2022. This diplomatic breakthrough took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Tuesday, where both sides held a lengthy four-and-a-half-hour meeting. The discussions were described as serious and comprehensive, focusing not only on the war but also on broader geopolitical issues and bilateral relations between the two superpowers.
During the meeting, US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed that both parties had agreed to form “high-level teams” aimed at creating a pathway toward ending the war. This move is a part of a broader initiative to establish a diplomatic channel that can resolve key tensions between Russia and the United States, as well as work toward finding a sustainable solution to the Ukraine crisis.
Bruce further elaborated that the proposed diplomatic channel would not only work on resolving the war but would also “lay the groundwork for future cooperation” in areas such as economic ties and investment opportunities that could emerge from the war’s resolution. Despite the optimism surrounding these developments, concerns have arisen, particularly among Ukraine and its European allies, regarding the potential for a peace agreement that could sideline their interests.
The Stakes for Ukraine and Europe
Ukrainian officials have expressed serious concerns that the United States, under President Donald Trump, might be preparing to negotiate a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin that would prioritize Russia’s terms and undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty. Ukraine’s government has consistently stated that any peace deal must include its participation, and Kyiv has made it clear that it would not accept any settlement imposed without its input.
While the US side, including figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and national security adviser Mike Waltz, maintained that they were committed to an enduring and sustainable resolution, the absence of Ukrainian representation at the talks raised alarms. Ukraine has called for full involvement in any peace negotiations, emphasizing that it must have a seat at the table due to the direct impact the war has on its sovereignty and future.
At the same time, European countries have shown growing anxiety over these developments. The fear is that, in an attempt to end the war swiftly, President Trump may overlook key European security concerns. The issue of NATO membership for Ukraine remains a flashpoint. While the United States has expressed skepticism regarding Ukraine’s potential NATO membership, some European countries have advocated for a more robust stance, fearing that a weakened Ukraine could embolden Russia to further destabilize the region.
Russia’s Stance and Demands
Russia, on its part, has made its stance clear, with President Vladimir Putin’s administration raising several key demands during the talks. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Putin’s foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov, who led the Russian delegation in Riyadh, reaffirmed Moscow’s position on Ukraine’s NATO ambitions. Russia has long been adamant that Ukraine’s potential NATO membership is a red line, a stance that has only hardened in recent months.
One of Russia’s key demands during the talks was for the United States and NATO to formally reject the 2008 promise that Ukraine could eventually join the alliance. Russia sees this as a fundamental issue that must be addressed to prevent further escalation in the region. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also categorically rejected any potential European peacekeeping role in Ukraine, underscoring Moscow’s desire to dictate the terms of the peace process without external interference.
In addition, Russia has made it clear that it expects any future peace agreement to involve significant concessions from Ukraine. Moscow has previously stated that it will not accept a peace settlement that would allow Ukraine to regain all of the territory currently occupied by Russian forces, including Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014.
Diplomatic Progress Amid Tension
The Riyadh talks signify a major diplomatic shift, with the US and Russia engaging in serious negotiations for the first time in over a year. While both sides have expressed a willingness to continue talks, it is still unclear what concrete steps will be taken to achieve a lasting peace. Ushakov suggested that the next phase of discussions would involve appointing specialized delegations to focus specifically on Ukraine, which could pave the way for a high-level summit between Presidents Trump and Putin in the near future.
While the progress made in Riyadh has been hailed as an important first step, it is unlikely that peace will come quickly or easily. The differences between the US and Russia on key issues, such as NATO and territorial integrity, are substantial, and the international community, particularly Ukraine and its European allies, will closely monitor the negotiations to ensure that their interests are not sidelined.
For the United States, the talks represent a significant shift in its approach to the conflict. Critics argue that President Trump’s concessions to Russia, particularly on the NATO issue, have already set a dangerous precedent. However, the US government maintains that these steps are necessary to acknowledge the realities on the ground and to move toward a sustainable solution.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Peace
As the United States and Russia move forward with their diplomatic efforts, much remains uncertain. The path to peace in Ukraine is fraught with challenges, and the involvement of all key stakeholders, including Ukraine, NATO, and the European Union, will be essential for ensuring a resolution that upholds the sovereignty of Ukraine and secures lasting peace in Europe.
While the talks in Riyadh may have laid the groundwork for future cooperation, it is clear that the road to ending the war in Ukraine will be long and complex. The international community must remain vigilant and united in its efforts to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also encouraging dialogue and diplomacy to bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict.