U.S.-Russian Peace Talks in Riyadh: Framework for Cooperation on…

U.S. and Russian officials held peace talks in Riyadh, focusing on resolving the Ukraine conflict while excluding Ukrainian representatives. The discussions aim to establish a ceasefire and potentially organize elections in Ukraine. President Zelenskyy insists on Ukraine’s involvement in negotiations, while discussions about European military support for Ukraine continue amidst these emerging peace efforts.

United States and Russian diplomatic officials engaged in talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, aiming to establish a peace framework for Ukraine. The discussions involved Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Notably, Ukrainian officials were absent from these discussions, which reportedly focus on reaching a ceasefire agreement and organizing potential elections in Ukraine, followed by a peace accord.

State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce confirmed the intent to foster cooperation between the two nations beyond Ukraine issues. They have agreed to form high-level teams to initiate discussions on how to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Reports suggest that imposing new elections in Ukraine may play a crucial role in any peace negotiations and that both nations assess President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s chances for re-election as diminished.

The conversations also reflected Russian perceptions regarding a potential Ukrainian successor to Zelenskyy, with sources stating that Russia views the likelihood of electing a more compliant leader as high. Conversely, Representative Brian Fitzpatrick dismissed the notion of forced elections in Ukraine, indicating significant opposition to external pressures on Kyiv’s electoral processes.

President Zelenskyy has made it clear that Ukraine would not accept any peace terms brokered without its direct involvement, emphasizing the country’s agency in negotiations. Following news of the Riyadh meeting, he adjusted his travel plans and returned to Kyiv, expressing skepticism about Russian intentions.

Moreover, European participation in these talks was notably absent, raising concerns about collaborative efforts among allies. Amidst ongoing warfare, discussions of peace are emerging, with U.K. Prime Minister Kier Starmer indicating a willingness to deploy British troops to ensure Ukraine’s security as part of a peace settlement, underscoring the serious implications for European stability.

The ongoing diplomatic efforts between the United States and Russia in Riyadh aim to set the stage for a peace agreement regarding the conflict in Ukraine. The absence of Ukrainian representatives and the suggestion of forced elections raise significant tensions, as Ukrainian leaders insist their involvement is non-negotiable. With European allies also navigating their security roles in potential peace arrangements, the landscape of international diplomacy surrounding Ukraine remains complex and fraught with challenges.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com