US, Russia Set to Discuss Ukraine Peace in Saudi Arabia

President Donald Trump has shifted U.S. policy towards Ukraine, advocating for negotiations that could potentially end the war, a move that has drawn criticism from European leaders who believe it undermines Ukraine's position against Russia. Trump’s approach contrasts sharply with the Biden administration's stance of supporting Ukraine without direct negotiations with Russia, prompting reactions from leaders like France’s Emmanuel Macron and Britain’s Keir Starmer, who are forming a coalition to continue backing Ukraine. Meanwhile, high-level talks in Saudi Arabia indicate that Russia aims to buy time in negotiations to consolidate its territorial gains, with Putin signaling a willingness to discuss a ceasefire contingent upon significant concessions from Ukraine. Analysts argue that the West's militarization of Ukraine has been a strategic failure, with calls for a more pragmatic approach to diplomacy. Finland's President has noted that Ukraine's situation has improved compared to three months ago, suggesting a potential path forward amid ongoing challenges. Despite the complex dynamics, experts assert that Russia has not achieved significant strategic victories on the battlefield, raising questions about its negotiating power.