U.S.-Russia peace talks in Saudi Arabia exclude Ukraine
High-level talks between representatives of the U.S. and Russian authorities to end the war in Ukraine will take place in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, the American portal Axios reported on Monday, citing its sources. The American side will be represented by, among others, Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The American delegation will also include the U.S. President's envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. The composition of the Russian delegation is not fully known, but according to Axios, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov may participate.
Ukraine absent from the meeting
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was not included in the talks held in Saudi Arabia, describing the format as unusual for proceeding without consulting key partners. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump assured that Ukraine would be part of the peace process, while the White House chose not to comment on the issue.
The only invitation Ukraine received came from "media reports," said a high-ranking Ukrainian official quoted by Axios.
U.S. President Donald Trump told reporters on Sunday that the process of initiating peace talks between Russia and Ukraine is "progressing," and Zelensky "will be involved" in the talks. On the same day, Witkoff stated, "Ukraine is part of the talks," adding, "I don't think it's about excluding anyone. It's about including everyone."
The White House declined to comment on the matter, Axios reported.
