US and Russia Agree to Negotiate Path to Ending War in Ukraine
RIYADH: Washington and Moscow have agreed to name teams to negotiate a path to ending the war in Ukraine as soon as possible, as the superpowers met today in Saudi Arabia without Kyiv or the EU.
How to Start Negotiations
The US and Russia have cast today’s meeting as the beginning of a potentially lengthy process and downplayed the prospects of a breakthrough. Russia’s Ushakov told state media that the talks would discuss "how to start negotiations on Ukraine".
Trump’s Lack of Concrete Plan
US President Donald Trump has said he wants to end the war in Ukraine, but has thus far presented no concrete plan. The US has urged both sides that concessions will have to be made if any peace talks materialise.
Russia’s Perspectives on Future Talks
Russia has sketched out some of its perspectives on future talks to ending the fighting in Ukraine, arguing that settling the war requires a reorganisation of Europe’s defence agreements. Moscow has long called for the withdrawal of Nato forces from eastern Europe, viewing the alliance as an existential threat on its flank.
EU’s Role in Talks
The EU, reeling from a series of speeches by Trump’s officials indicating Washington does not see Moscow as a threat, said it still wants to "partner" with the US on any truce talks. Trump’s administration has given no clear answer on whether the EU would take part and Moscow has said it sees no point in Europe having a seat at the table.
Conclusion
The US and Russia’s agreement to negotiate a path to ending the war in Ukraine marks a significant step towards a potential resolution to the conflict. However, the lack of a concrete plan from Trump and the uncertain role of the EU in the talks make it unclear whether a lasting peace can be achieved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What did the US and Russia agree to?
A: The US and Russia agreed to name teams to negotiate a path to ending the war in Ukraine as soon as possible.
Q: What is the current status of the war in Ukraine?
A: The war in Ukraine has been ongoing since February 2022, with no clear end in sight.
Q: What is Russia’s stance on Nato?
A: Russia has called for the withdrawal of Nato forces from eastern Europe, viewing the alliance as an existential threat on its flank.
Q: What is the EU’s role in the talks?
A: The EU has expressed a desire to "partner" with the US on any truce talks, but its role in the negotiations remains unclear.