Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has canceled his planned visit to Saudi Arabia following unexpected talks between the US and Russia in Riyadh.
Zelensky revealed during a press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan that he was caught off guard by the discussions between the two powers on February 18, 2025.
The President also confirmed that his visit to Saudi Arabia has now been rescheduled for March 10.
He added that the US delegation would be visiting Kyiv soon, expressing a commitment to strengthening relationships with Ukraine’s partners.
Zelensky’s Decision to Delay Saudi Visit
Zelensky explained that his decision to cancel the trip was made to avoid any potential misunderstandings in light of the surprise US-Russia talks. He emphasized that it was important to him that Ukraine’s partners did not perceive any unnecessary confusion or tensions arising from the situation. Despite the shift in plans, Zelensky made it clear that his commitment to Ukraine’s goals remained steadfast, and his administration would continue its work on securing peace and support.
Zelensky Stands Firm Against Ultimatums
In the midst of the US-Russia talks, Zelensky also sent a clear message regarding Ukraine’s stance on any potential ultimatums.
He expressed his discontent with discussions being held about Ukraine without Ukrainian representatives present, particularly when such talks might imply demands or restrictions on Kyiv’s decisions.
“If we didn’t accept ultimatums during the toughest times, do they really think we will accept them now?” Zelensky asked rhetorically.
The Ukrainian president reiterated that Ukraine would reject any attempt to impose terms that compromise its sovereignty.
Ukraine’s Sovereignty at the Heart of Zelensky’s Message
Zelensky made it clear that while Russia and the US could discuss their bilateral relations, Ukraine must be at the table when it comes to discussions about its future.
He emphasized that any peace negotiations over Ukraine must include Kyiv’s direct participation, as Ukraine is a sovereign nation with the right to determine its own fate.
According to Zelensky, while Ukraine seeks a peaceful resolution to the conflict, its territorial integrity must remain non-negotiable.
Details of US-Russia Talks in Riyadh
The US and Russian delegations met in Riyadh on February 18, with discussions focused on potential solutions for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Russia’s delegation included Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and presidential aide Yuri Ushakov, while the US was represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Special Representative Steve Witkoff.
However, no Ukrainian or European representatives were present during the talks, which raised questions about the inclusivity and legitimacy of such negotiations from Ukraine’s perspective.
Why Ukraine and Europe Were Absent from the Talks
Political analysts, such as Sergey Markov, suggested that Europe and Ukraine’s absence from the Riyadh meeting stemmed from differing priorities.
While Russia and the US are reportedly focused on seeking peace, Ukraine and Europe have been seen as aiming to prolong the conflict in order to achieve their respective goals.
Markov’s comments hint at a broader geopolitical divide regarding the ongoing war and its potential resolution.
US and Russia’s Peace Plan Proposal
The talks between the US and Russia led to the proposal of a peace plan, as reported by Fox News’ Jackie Heinrich.
The plan outlined three key phases: a ceasefire, elections in Ukraine, and a final peace agreement.
This proposal marks a significant step in the US and Russia’s efforts to address the conflict, though both sides acknowledged that much work remains to be done before lasting peace can be achieved.
The US State Department noted that the Riyadh meeting, though a breakthrough, was only an initial step.
The Road Ahead for Peace
While the talks between the US and Russia in Riyadh represent an important move toward resolving the conflict in Ukraine, it remains clear that Ukraine’s involvement is critical for any lasting peace.
Zelensky’s firm stance against negotiations without Kyiv’s participation signals that Ukraine will continue to play an active role in shaping its future.
The international community will likely be watching closely as the situation evolves, particularly as future talks unfold.
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