diplomatic exclusion
Why is President Zelensky upset about the peace talks regarding Ukraine?
President Zelensky has expressed frustration at being excluded from peace discussions aimed at resolving the war in his country. According to the CBS News update, he has clearly stated that he cannot and will not accept any outcome from these talks that doesn't involve him personally. In response to this exclusion, Zelensky has taken the significant step of postponing his scheduled trip to Saudi Arabia, where these discussions were taking place. His position emphasizes Ukraine's insistence on having direct representation in any peace process that will determine the future of their nation.
Watch clip answer (00:13m)
CBS News
00:31 - 00:45
How did President Zelensky react to being excluded from peace talks about Ukraine?
President Zelensky reacted strongly to being left out of peace discussions about Ukraine, explicitly stating that he 'cannot and will not accept any outcome from these talks' that doesn't include him. His frustration was evident in his decision to postpone his scheduled trip to Saudi Arabia that was set to take place the following day. This response highlights Zelensky's insistence on Ukraine having direct representation in any negotiations regarding its future, emphasizing his position that no diplomatic solutions should be reached without Ukrainian involvement.
Watch clip answer (00:13m)
CBS News
00:31 - 00:45
How are Russians reacting to the US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia?
The Russians are delighted by the US-Russia talks, believing they've already scored a diplomatic victory. They view the fact that senior US officials met with Russian officials during the ongoing Ukraine war as proof that Western isolation attempts have failed. According to Steve Rosenberg, Russian state media portrays this as evidence that Russia has successfully returned to the global stage with its leadership legitimized. This perception of diplomatic success is being celebrated on Russian political talk shows, where guests are expressing satisfaction with how the meetings have progressed.
Watch clip answer (00:32m)
BBC News
09:05 - 09:37
Why are the US and Russia discussing Ukraine peace negotiations without Ukrainian representation?
The US and Russia are engaging in discussions about restarting diplomatic relations and exploring tentative steps toward peace negotiations for Ukraine, notably without Ukrainian representation in those talks. This exclusion raises significant questions about the implications for Ukraine's sovereignty in decisions affecting its future. Among the key issues expected to be part of these negotiations are rare earths and critical minerals, which experts believe will be central to any agreement regardless of the negotiation format. These diplomatic developments are occurring amid rapidly evolving global events, highlighting tensions between major powers shaping potential peace terms.
Watch clip answer (00:55m)
BBC News
00:19 - 01:15
Why are Ukrainians and Europeans frustrated with the recent diplomatic talks in Saudi Arabia?
Ukrainians and Europeans are experiencing significant frustration and anger because they were excluded from recent diplomatic talks with Russia held in Saudi Arabia. The Ukrainians were completely left out of these discussions despite being the country directly affected by the conflict with Russia. Similarly, European allies are questioning when they will be invited to participate in negotiations, especially after investing billions of dollars in Ukraine's defense. They are concerned about their role in the peace process and what return they can expect on their significant financial commitment to supporting Ukraine. This exclusion has created tension among key stakeholders in the ongoing conflict.
Watch clip answer (00:24m)
CBS News
02:34 - 02:58
What is the concern about Ukraine's involvement in peace negotiations?
European leaders emphasize that Ukraine must be 'at the table, not on the table' during peace negotiations. There's significant concern that excluding Ukrainians and Europeans could result in a deal that doesn't benefit either party, following the diplomatic adage that 'if you're not at the table, you're going to get eaten.' Marc Polymeropoulos stresses the importance of giving Ukraine agency in these discussions since it is ultimately their war and their fight. This highlights the critical distinction between Ukraine being an active participant in determining its future versus being merely the subject of negotiations conducted by others.
Watch clip answer (00:27m)
MSNBC
01:54 - 02:21