Ukraine Sidelined Amid U.S.-Russia Peace Talks

Recent negotiations between the U.S. and Russia in Riyadh have sidelined European involvement, raising concerns for Ukraine as it faces the possibility of decisions being made without its input. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reached out to leaders from South Africa, Finland, France, Denmark, Canada, and Norway, emphasizing the need for continued military support and security guarantees. In contrast, the Trump administration's recent stance has caused friction with Ukraine, with reports of internal pressures on Zelenskyy to concede to U.S. demands for a peace deal. The ongoing conflict in southeastern Ukraine is exacerbated by fears of territorial concessions as Russian forces advance, highlighting the urgency for Western commitments to Ukraine's defense. Amidst this, Zelenskyy continues to advocate for a united front among Ukraine, America, and Europe in peace negotiations. The situation underscores a broader geopolitical shift, with external powers increasingly dictating the future of Ukraine while Kyiv grapples with the realities of war.