US, Russia discuss Ukraine war without Kyiv.
As the Russia-Ukraine war nears its three-year mark, the United States and Russia held a crucial meeting in Riyadh to discuss potential pathways to peace and explore ways to stabilize relations. The talks, which took place without Ukraine’s participation, focused on de-escalation efforts and broader geopolitical concerns. Officials from both nations emphasized the importance of diplomatic engagement in addressing the ongoing conflict. While details of the discussions remain undisclosed, analysts suggest that such meetings signal a shift in approach toward resolving the war. The absence of Kyiv, however, has raised concerns about the inclusivity of peace negotiations and the future of Ukraine’s role in shaping its own fate.
US, Russia Meet in Riyadh to Work Towards Ending Ukraine War, Kyiv Left Out
As the Russia-Ukraine war approaches its three-year mark, the United States and Russia held a high-level meeting in Riyadh on Wednesday, signaling a potential shift in diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict. The meeting, which aimed to establish better diplomatic and economic ties between the two global powers, notably took place without Ukraine’s participation.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov confirmed the discussions, outlining key objectives the two nations agreed upon. The three main goals include restoring staffing at their respective embassies, forming a high-level diplomatic team to work toward Ukraine peace talks, and exploring closer relations and economic cooperation between the U.S. and Russia.
A Diplomatic Shift Under the Trump Administration
The Riyadh meeting highlights a significant change in the U.S. approach to the war under the Trump administration. Unlike the Biden administration, which prioritized Ukraine’s involvement in any negotiations, President Donald Trump’s foreign policy appears to lean toward direct engagement with Russia without Kyiv’s participation. This shift has sparked both hope for a quicker resolution and criticism over the exclusion of Ukraine from the decision-making process.
Following the meeting, Rubio told the Associated Press, “We recognize the need for a new approach to diplomacy. The United States and Russia must work together to reduce tensions and bring this war to an end. Our nations have agreed to establish stronger diplomatic ties and move forward on key economic and security issues.”
While Rubio framed the meeting as a step toward peace, the absence of Ukrainian representatives has raised concerns among European allies and Kyiv itself. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reacted strongly to the developments, stating, “Ukraine will not recognize the outcome of any negotiations that exclude us. Our country, our people, and our sovereignty cannot be decided without our direct involvement.”
What This Means for US-Russia Relations
The meeting in Riyadh marks a rare moment of direct dialogue between Washington and Moscow since the outbreak of the war in 2022. Over the years, tensions between the U.S. and Russia have escalated due to heavy sanctions, military confrontations, and growing geopolitical divisions. However, both sides now seem interested in exploring a new path forward.
Restoring diplomatic ties, particularly by increasing embassy staffing, is a crucial step. Over the past few years, diplomatic representation between the two nations has significantly dwindled due to mutual expulsions of personnel, further straining communication channels. By addressing this issue, both countries hope to lay the groundwork for better diplomatic engagement.
Economic cooperation was another major talking point. While Washington and Moscow have been locked in a series of economic disputes, particularly regarding energy exports and sanctions, the meeting suggested that both sides are interested in revisiting economic dialogue. Although specifics were not disclosed, this development indicates a potential easing of restrictions that have impacted trade relations.
The Absence of Ukraine: A Cause for Concern?
Perhaps the most controversial aspect of the meeting was Ukraine’s exclusion. Under the Biden administration, Kyiv was considered a central player in all diplomatic discussions regarding the war. The shift under Trump’s leadership suggests a new strategy—one that prioritizes negotiations between the two primary global superpowers while relegating Ukraine to a secondary role.
Analysts have expressed concern over this approach. Political expert Michael Thompson noted, “Excluding Ukraine from these negotiations is a risky move. While it might streamline diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Russia, it also undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty and risks alienating key European allies.”
European nations have been among Ukraine’s most vocal supporters, providing financial aid, military support, and diplomatic backing since the conflict began. The U.S. decision to engage Russia without Ukraine’s direct involvement could strain transatlantic alliances and raise questions about Washington’s long-term commitment to Kyiv.
In response to the meeting, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg reaffirmed the alliance’s support for Ukraine. “Ukraine remains a valued partner, and we will continue to support its fight for sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he stated.
Russia’s Perspective and Strategic Interests
For Russia, the meeting in Riyadh represents a diplomatic victory. Since the war began, Moscow has been heavily sanctioned and politically isolated by Western nations. By securing direct talks with the United States, Russia signals that it remains a critical player in global politics, despite efforts to isolate it.
Lavrov, in his statement after the meeting, emphasized the need for pragmatic diplomacy. “Russia is always open to dialogue, but we will not engage in negotiations that disregard our national interests. This meeting marks the beginning of a more balanced approach to international relations,” he said.
While Russia has framed the discussions as a step toward peace, its broader strategy remains unclear. Over the past year, Russian forces have continued their military operations in eastern Ukraine, capturing key territories and showing no signs of withdrawing. The extent to which Moscow is genuinely willing to pursue peace remains a subject of speculation.
The Road Ahead: What Comes Next?
The Riyadh talks mark the beginning of a new diplomatic chapter, but whether this leads to tangible progress remains uncertain. The three key goals—restoring embassy staffing, forming a diplomatic team for Ukraine peace talks, and exploring economic cooperation—will likely take months to materialize.
For Ukraine, the exclusion from these discussions poses a significant diplomatic challenge. Kyiv will need to work closely with its European allies to ensure its voice remains heard in future negotiations. Meanwhile, the Trump administration’s approach will continue to shape U.S. foreign policy, potentially altering Washington’s relationships with both Ukraine and its NATO partners.
As the war continues, the global community will be watching closely to see whether these talks lead to a meaningful resolution—or simply serve as another round of diplomatic posturing. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain: the United States, Russia, and Ukraine are now navigating a complex and uncertain path toward the future.