Ukrainian Officials Discuss Peace Options With Saudi Leaders in Riyadh

Senior Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's chief of staff Andriy Yermak and Security Council head Rustem Umerov, visited Riyadh to discuss potential pathways to peace in Ukraine and Saudi Arabia's role in facilitating negotiations. During their meetings with Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman and the national security adviser, the focus was on diplomatic initiatives and Saudi Arabia's participation in the peace process. Zelenskyy suggested that Turkey, Gulf states, or European countries could host talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the conflict. Concurrently, Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a handwritten letter to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman regarding bilateral relations and cooperation, signaling Saudi Arabia's increasing involvement in mediating the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Saudi efforts underscore the Kingdom’s growing role as a key player in international diplomacy and peace efforts in the region. These developments precede upcoming talks planned in Switzerland and New York involving Ukrainian and U.S. officials.