US, Russia Engage in Saudi Talks on Ukraine Conflict

In recent diplomatic developments, U.S. President Donald Trump has sent his personal friend Steve Witkoff to Moscow to engage in discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the Ukraine conflict. Witkoff's appointment, despite lacking formal diplomatic experience, has raised eyebrows among Western allies due to concerns about the exclusion of Ukraine from these talks. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov indicated that the primary goal of the upcoming U.S.-Russia discussions in Saudi Arabia is to understand the proposals from the Trump administration regarding Ukraine. Meanwhile, there are apprehensions expressed by Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelensky, about any agreements reached without Ukraine's involvement, emphasizing that the country is a central issue in these negotiations. Additionally, U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg is expected to arrive in Kiev with a concrete action plan, underscoring the tensions between the U.S. and Ukraine amid these unfolding diplomatic maneuvers. The situation highlights a potential shift in the geopolitical landscape concerning the Ukraine crisis and the dynamics of international negotiations.