Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has openly criticized the United States for engaging in diplomatic talks with Russia in Saudi Arabia without Ukraine’s participation. The talks, aimed at addressing security concerns and potential resolutions to the ongoing war, have raised concerns in Kyiv, with Zelensky accusing Washington of indirectly favoring Russian President Vladimir Putin.
According to sources, U.S. and Russian officials have convened in Saudi Arabia to explore avenues for conflict resolution and strategic stability in Eastern Europe. However, Ukraine, which remains at the heart of the conflict, has been excluded from these discussions, prompting a strong reaction from Zelensky’s administration.
“Any negotiations regarding Ukraine, conducted without Ukraine, undermine the principles of justice and sovereignty,” Zelensky stated in a televised address. “We cannot allow world powers to decide our fate behind closed doors. History has shown that concessions to Russia only embolden further aggression.”
Growing Tensions Over U.S. Foreign Policy
The move to engage in direct discussions with Russia has fueled speculation about a possible shift in U.S. foreign policy, especially in light of upcoming political transitions in Washington. Zelensky and other Ukrainian officials worry that any deal made without Ukraine’s presence could weaken their stance against Russia’s invasion.
Diplomatic analysts suggest that the Biden administration may be exploring new avenues to de-escalate the war, particularly as military aid to Ukraine faces increasing scrutiny in the U.S. Congress. Some officials believe that direct U.S.-Russia engagement could open pathways to a negotiated settlement, while critics argue it risks sidelining Ukraine and undermining its resistance efforts.
Saudi Arabia’s Role in Mediation
Saudi Arabia, under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has positioned itself as a key intermediary in international diplomacy, leveraging its relationships with both Western powers and Moscow. Riyadh’s involvement signals its growing ambition to play a significant role in global conflict resolution efforts.
Previous Saudi-hosted summits have included broad international participation, but the current meeting’s exclusion of Ukraine marks a departure from past efforts. Western diplomats argue that engaging Russia directly may be a strategic necessity, while Ukraine insists that any decisions made without its input could compromise its national security and sovereignty.
Uncertain Outcomes and Global Reactions
The international community remains divided on the implications of these secretive talks. European leaders have expressed cautious support for diplomatic efforts but reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Meanwhile, some NATO allies fear that direct engagement with Moscow could signal Western fatigue in supporting Ukraine’s defense.
Zelensky has urged allied nations to remain firm in their commitment to Ukraine, warning against any agreements that might serve Putin’s long-term interests. “The world must learn from history and ensure that peace is achieved through justice, not compromise at the expense of sovereignty,” he stated.
As negotiations unfold, the outcome of these discussions could have significant geopolitical consequences. Whether the U.S. is genuinely pursuing peace or attempting to recalibrate its strategic interests remains to be seen, but for Ukraine, the message is clear: no agreement should be made without its direct involvement.