⚡️Talks between Russia and the U.S. (excluding Ukraine) have concluded in Saudi Arabia

Updated

Talks between Russia and the United States have concluded in Riyadh. They lasted nearly five hours. The parties discussed the war in Ukraine—and a possible meeting between Putin and Trump.

Talks between the Russian and U.S. delegations in Riyadh have concluded. This was announced by Russian Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov, according to Interfax. The Russian-American talks lasted 4.5 hours.

Among other topics, the Russian-Ukrainian war was discussed during the meeting.

“Yes, we discussed [this issue], outlined our general approaches, and agreed that separate negotiating teams on this issue would get in touch in due course,” — Ushakov said. 

According to Ushakov, a possible meeting between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump was also discussed. He noted that it is unlikely to take place next week.

"This issue has been discussed, and we will work to create the conditions for such a meeting," said the Russian president's aide.

Talks between representatives of Russia and the United States have begun in the Saudi Arabian capital, Riyadh. The “Russia 24” television channel aired the first footage of the meeting between the delegations. The meeting is taking place at the Al-Basatin Royal Palace Complex, in the Diriyah residence.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously stated that Kyiv does not recognize the outcome of the meeting between Russia and the United States in Riyadh.

Representing Russia in the negotiations are Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov, and RDIF CEO Kirill Dmitriev.

The U.S. delegation is represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Walz, and U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Whitcoff.

The main topic of discussion is preparations for possible negotiations to resolve the Russian-Ukrainian conflict.

Before the meeting began, RFPI head Kirill Dmitriev said that Moscow had submitted a number of proposals to Washington on trade and economic issues, according to Interfax.

According to NBC News, the United States plans to hold separate consultations with Russia and Ukraine ahead of joint talks.

What's next?

If everything goes according to plan:
Perhaps we’ll see at least some de-escalation and a new round of diplomacy. But then the reality hits: Russia and the U.S. may use these talks as a way to buy time, while a real solution to the problem remains forever shrouded in uncertainty.

For Ukraine:
Zelenskyy has already made it clear that, for Kyiv, the outcome of these talks is like a counterfeit coin: it shines beautifully, but has no value. This could further erode trust and heighten tensions.

Global Shifts:
The world order may once again be shaken up—who knows which direction things will take from here on out. Politics, as always, leaves room for the unexpected, and even the most carefully thought-out plan can turn into chaos.

The outcome of these negotiations depends on many factors. It could be positive, or it could lead to an escalation of the situation. The main thing is to keep an eye on how events unfold and not believe everything that seems promising at first glance.