• High-level US-Russia talks held in Saudi Arabia mark a shift in diplomatic relations.
• Ukraine excluded from negotiations, raising concerns about future agreements.
• US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov discuss potential settlement to the Ukraine conflict.
• Donald Trump vocalizes support for peace talks while criticizing Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
• International responses highlight fears of concessions that could undermine Ukraine's sovereignty.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia - In a significant development, top US and Russian diplomats convened in Saudi Arabia for the first high-level discussions since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The meeting, featuring US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, aimed to address the fractured US-Russia relations and explore a pathway to end the ongoing war, however, it notably took place without the involvement of Ukrainian representatives. The talks, described by both sides as constructive, occurred against a backdrop of soaring tensions and marked a potential pivot in Washington’s strategy towards Russia. Trump’s administration appears to be moving away from the previous policy of isolating Moscow, as the absence of Ukrainian and European officials at the table sparked immediate criticism from Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that no agreements affecting Ukraine's future could be made without its participation, stating, "No decision can be made without Ukraine." During the meeting, discussions centered on establishing high-level negotiating teams focused on achieving a resolution to the conflict, a move seen as crucial given that nearly 20% of Ukraine's territory has been under Russian control since the start of the invasion. Trump noted after the talks that he felt increasingly optimistic about the prospects for a peace deal, asserting, "I think I have the power to end this war." However, Trump's remarks also included comments suggesting that Ukraine bore some blame for the war, which were met with backlash from Zelenskyy, who labeled Trump's assertions as disinformation. The Ukrainian leader pointed to recent survey data indicating his approval rating remains robust, countering Trump's claim of a low public opinion standing. Zelenskyy has consistently polled above 50% in favorability, indicating strong national support amidst the war. Furthermore, the geopolitical implications of the Riyadh talks extend beyond the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with both nations hinting at potential economic cooperation should stability be restored. Observers caution that any concessions made to Russia could further endanger Ukraine’s sovereignty and security, a sentiment echoed strongly among European leaders who felt sidelined by the US's shift in strategy. As the discussions progress, the international community, particularly European allies, are keenly focused on ensuring that Ukraine's interests are safeguarded in any future agreements. European Union officials have reiterated the need for a resolution that includes comprehensive security guarantees to prevent further Russian advances. While the talks signal a thaw in relations between the US and Russia, they have also raised apprehensions about the management of the Ukraine crisis and the potential sidelining of Ukraine in discussions that directly affect its future. As diplomatic channels reopen, the true test will be whether the outcomes align with the aspirations of Ukraine and its European partners for a sustainable and just peace.