US-Russia Relations
How is the White House framing peace talks with Russia about Ukraine without Ukraine's involvement?
The White House, led by President Biden, has expressed a desire to work toward a peace deal, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio framing these discussions as starting with diplomatic talks. A US delegation led by Rubio is meeting with Russia's foreign minister, though Rubio has cautioned this is only the beginning of a process with uncertain outcomes. Meanwhile, Ukraine has clearly stated it wants a seat at the table when discussing its future and any potential peace deal. This highlights the tension between diplomatic initiatives and Ukraine's insistence on being included in negotiations that will determine its fate.
Watch clip answer (00:54m)What is the significance of the US-Russia diplomatic talks in Saudi Arabia and what role does the US play in Ukraine's peace prospects?
US and Russian diplomats are holding talks in Saudi Arabia to reset their fractured relations, marking the first such discussion since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. These talks represent a critical diplomatic effort amid ongoing tensions in Eastern Europe. The UK Defense Minister emphasized that a US backstop is essential for achieving peace in Ukraine, specifically to prevent Russian President Vladimir Putin from launching further attacks. Meanwhile, the UK has declared its readiness to deploy troops to Ukraine to ensure security, highlighting the complex international response to the conflict.
Watch clip answer (00:37m)What is the UK's position on Ukraine's security against Russia?
The UK Defense Minister has emphasized that a US backstop is critical for maintaining peace in Ukraine and preventing future Russian aggression under Vladimir Putin. This stance highlights the importance of American support in stabilizing the region and deterring further conflict. Notably, the UK has declared its readiness to deploy troops to Ukraine to ensure security, demonstrating a significant commitment to Ukraine's defense. This military readiness reflects the seriousness with which the UK views the ongoing tensions and its willingness to take concrete action to support Ukraine against potential Russian threats.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)What is the status of a potential meeting between Putin and Trump?
According to Putin's aide Ushakov, a meeting between President Putin and President Trump is unlikely to take place next week. The Russian negotiator indicated it is too early to discuss a specific date for any Putin-Trump summit. While conditions for a potential meeting between the two leaders were reportedly discussed during talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the timeline remains uncertain. The Russian side appears to be taking a cautious approach to scheduling any high-level meeting between the leaders at this stage.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)What is the current status of the potential Putin-Trump summit?
According to Putin's aide Yushakov, the Putin-Trump meeting is unlikely to take place next week. After four and a half hours of discussions in Saudi Arabia, the Russian negotiator stated it's still too early to talk about a specific date for the summit. While conditions for the meeting between the two leaders were reportedly discussed in Riyadh, Yushakov emphasized that Putin will decide when talks with the United States on the Ukraine peace deal can happen. He also indicated uncertainty about whether U.S. and Russian positions are getting closer.
Watch clip answer (01:27m)What was the outcome of the U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia regarding a potential Putin-Trump meeting?
The U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia concluded after four and a half hours of discussions. According to Putin's aide Ushakov, a meeting between Putin and Trump is unlikely to take place next week, and it's premature to discuss a specific date for the summit. While conditions for the potential meeting between the two leaders were discussed in Riyadh, the Russian negotiator indicated that Putin will decide when talks with the United States on a Ukraine peace deal will begin. Discussions about Ukraine's conflict are expected to continue in another venue.
Watch clip answer (01:21m)