Today's Read Contributor February 16, 2025 – In a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, American and Russian officials convened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on February 18, 2025, to discuss potential pathways to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The summit, led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, marks the most extensive diplomatic engagement between the two nations since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. However, the exclusion of Ukrainian representatives from the talks has sparked controversy and raised concerns among international observers, complicating an already delicate situation.
The summit’s agenda centered on exploring opportunities for de-escalation and establishing a framework for peace between the warring nations. Both the U.S. and Russian officials agreed to form high-level teams to negotiate terms aimed at normalizing diplomatic and economic relations. While this is seen as a step towards breaking the deadlock, the absence of Ukrainian officials has cast a shadow over the proceedings, raising questions about the legitimacy and inclusivity of the peace process. Critics argue that any lasting resolution will require Ukraine’s involvement, especially given the scale of the conflict and the suffering endured by its people.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded swiftly to the summit by canceling a planned visit to Saudi Arabia. In a strongly worded statement, he expressed his dissatisfaction with the lack of Ukrainian participation, emphasizing that Ukraine must be directly involved in any peace agreement. Zelenskyy also warned that any solution imposed without Ukraine’s consent would be unacceptable. His response highlights the deepening divide between the Ukrainian government and the diplomatic efforts led by Russia and the U.S.
The absence of Ukrainian representation at the talks is not the only point of contention. European Union representatives were also notably absent from the summit, further complicating the peace process. Historically, European leaders have played a crucial role in mediating the conflict, with the EU offering financial and military support to Ukraine while also exerting diplomatic pressure on Russia. The U.S. decision to pursue a more direct, bilateral approach with Russia has raised concerns among European allies, who fear being sidelined in the negotiations. Some analysts suggest that the exclusion of the EU may hinder the potential for a balanced and comprehensive peace agreement that reflects the interests of all parties involved.
The summit in Riyadh also underscored the shifting geopolitical landscape. Saudi Arabia, which has positioned itself as a mediator in the conflict, has been increasing its diplomatic influence in the region. The kingdom’s neutral stance on the war, coupled with its growing ties with both the U.S. and Russia, allowed it to host the talks. Saudi Arabia’s role in facilitating these discussions signals its ambition to play a more prominent role in global diplomatic affairs.
Despite the progress made in establishing communication channels, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges. The war in Ukraine has caused immense loss of life, destabilized the region, and exacerbated global food and energy crises. The U.S. and Russia are also deeply entrenched in their positions, with Russia continuing to demand territorial concessions from Ukraine, while the Ukrainian government insists on full territorial integrity. The resolution of such fundamental issues will require not only negotiation but also significant political will on both sides.
International reactions to the summit have been mixed. While some view the talks as a necessary step towards peace, others see the lack of Ukrainian involvement as a major flaw. The situation is further complicated by the differing priorities of global powers, including the EU, which has emphasized the importance of a multilateral approach to resolving the crisis. Without broad international consensus, it remains unclear whether the U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia will lead to meaningful progress or further entrench the conflict.
As the situation continues to evolve, all eyes will be on the next steps in the peace process. While the Riyadh summit has brought the possibility of diplomacy back into focus, it remains to be seen whether the talks will lead to a lasting resolution or whether further tensions will emerge, particularly given the exclusion of key stakeholders like Ukraine and the EU.
