Riyadh Talks
What diplomatic talks occurred regarding the Ukraine war, and what is their significance?
In Saudi Arabia, an extraordinary diplomatic meeting took place where Russian and American diplomats - typically on opposing sides - engaged in four hours of talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. This unusual diplomatic engagement demonstrates the ongoing international efforts to resolve the conflict through negotiation rather than continued military confrontation. The significance of these talks is heightened by their rarity and the direct involvement of representatives from major global powers with opposing interests in the conflict. Notably, these discussions occurred without Ukrainian representation present, raising questions about the nature of potential peace arrangements being discussed between Russia and the United States.
Watch clip answer (00:10m)
BBC News
02:27 - 02:37
What is President Trump claiming about his ability to end the war in Ukraine?
President Trump has asserted that he possesses the unique power to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. Following talks between Russian and American diplomats in Saudi Arabia, Trump stated that if he had been in office three years ago, the conflict would never have begun, suggesting his negotiation skills could have prevented the invasion. Trump criticized Ukraine for failing to reach a deal with Russia before the conflict escalated. The context of his claims is notable as recent diplomatic discussions in Riyadh occurred without Ukrainian representatives present, raising concerns in Ukraine and across Europe about the negotiation process and potential undermining of Ukrainian interests.
Watch clip answer (00:13m)
BBC News
00:00 - 00:13
What was the outcome of US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia regarding a potential Ukraine peace deal?
According to US President Donald Trump, the talks between the United States and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia were "very good," increasing his confidence about a potential Ukraine peace deal. Trump expressed optimism about the negotiations while speaking to reporters at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. However, Trump also criticized Ukrainian President Zelensky, even blaming him for Russia's invasion and for complaining about being excluded from the Riyadh talks. Trump pressured Zelensky to hold elections, which is one of Russia's key demands in the peace negotiations process.
Watch clip answer (00:37m)
WION
00:00 - 00:37
What is the purpose of the talks in Saudi Arabia between US and Russian representatives?
The talks in Saudi Arabia serve as a stepping stone for broader negotiations between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. These preliminary discussions are establishing groundwork for more comprehensive diplomatic engagements focused on two key objectives: resolving the Ukraine conflict and recalibrating US-Russia relations. The upcoming negotiations represent a potential turning point in addressing both the ongoing war in Ukraine and the strained economic ties between the two nations, which have been significantly impacted by sanctions. According to the context, US businesses have suffered an estimated $300 billion loss since exiting the Russian market.
Watch clip answer (00:15m)
WION
01:04 - 01:20
Why did President Zelenskyy criticize the Riyadh talks regarding Ukraine?
President Zelenskyy criticized the Riyadh talks because they were discussions about Ukraine conducted without Ukraine's direct participation. According to Kurt Volker, former U.S. Ambassador to NATO, any negotiations impacting Ukraine's future must include Ukrainian officials at the table. Volker emphasized the importance of consulting both Ukraine and European allies during any negotiations with Russia. He expressed skepticism about reaching lasting agreements without proper Ukrainian representation and underscored that ongoing conversations involving U.S. officials, European leaders, and Ukraine are essential to effectively address the conflict's complexities.
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Al Jazeera English
00:10 - 00:18
What impact will the US-Russia talks in Riyadh have on Ukraine?
According to geopolitical analyst Anatol Lieven, these discussions 'definitely doesn't have a positive impact on Ukraine.' The exclusion of Ukrainian representatives from the Riyadh talks between US and Russian diplomats has raised significant concerns about Ukraine's sovereignty and its role in determining its own future. The situation is particularly alarming for Ukraine as it feels increasingly sidelined in peace negotiations that directly affect its territorial integrity and security interests. This diplomatic approach, where decisions are being made without Ukrainian input, threatens to undermine the country's position and potentially weaken international support for its defense against Russian aggression.
Watch clip answer (00:03m)
Al Jazeera English
02:33 - 02:36