Breakthrough in Russia-Ukraine War? US and Russia Begin Peace Talks in Saudi Arabia

In a watershed diplomatic development, high-level officials from both the United States and Russia have opened preliminary peace talks in Riyadh that aim to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The meeting in Saudi Arabia’s capital of Riyadh is the first in-person discussion between top officials from both countries since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched his full-scale invasion of Ukraine almost three years ago.

The Foreign Ministry took the platform x and wrote, “the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is hosting talks between the Russian Federation and the United States of America today, Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in Riyadh. This initiative is part of the Kingdom’s efforts to promote global peace and security.” 

Most importantly, Ukraine and European representatives were not a part of these talks, raising concerns that notwithstanding hopes for a peace settlement. Widespread speculative hope arises for Trump and Putin meeting talks between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov which has not talked directly to each other for up to two years at this level. 

The initial intention was to intervene and pave the way for a ceasefire and maybe prepare for a summit between the US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

The world watches in Wait and Hope as negotiations progress in Riyadh, aware that prospects for a sustainable resolution insist upon comprehensive discourse with all parties involved in Ukraine.