Following a U.S.-Russia meeting in Riyadh to discuss the Ukraine conflict, Prime Minister Trudeau emphasized the fundamental principle of Ukrainian inclusion in any peace negotiations, stating that “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” This stance aligns with that of Canada’s allies and contrasts sharply with the U.S.-Russia meeting’s exclusion of Ukrainian officials, a decision that has drawn criticism from Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and other European leaders. Trudeau reiterated Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine against Russia’s aggression, highlighting the devastating human cost of the war and Russia’s violation of international norms. President Trump’s comments blaming Ukraine for the conflict further underscore the divisions surrounding the ongoing war.
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Following a meeting between US and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia, Donald Trump expressed disappointment with Ukraine’s negotiation efforts, suggesting a quicker resolution was possible. He touted his own negotiating skills and proposed Ukrainian elections as a condition for peace, a suggestion he claimed originated not from Russia but from himself and other countries. Trump also revealed past discussions with Putin regarding Ukraine, asserting that Putin initially had no intention of invading. Despite Ukraine’s absence from the talks, US and Russian officials agreed to restore embassy staffing and establish a high-level team to negotiate peace.
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Zelenskyy postponed his previously scheduled visit to avoid coinciding with the U.S.-Russia talks in Riyadh, held on February 18th, emphasizing Ukraine’s exclusion from these discussions. The nearly five-hour meeting between U.S. and Russian foreign ministers resulted in agreements to restore embassy staffing and establish missions focused on peace negotiations. However, reports of a potential three-stage peace plan, including Ukrainian elections, were met with Zelenskyy’s firm rejection of any Russian ultimatums. Ukraine’s position remains that no decisions regarding the war can be made without its direct involvement.
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Following high-level talks in Saudi Arabia, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Russia would not accept NATO peacekeeping troops in Ukraine as part of any peace agreement. The US and Russia agreed to establish negotiating teams to pursue an end to the war, marking a first step in what is expected to be a lengthy process. This meeting, the first face-to-face encounter between Russian and American delegations since the invasion, also saw agreements to restore diplomatic relations and increase cooperation. However, Ukraine’s exclusion from the talks prompted criticism and varied responses from European leaders regarding potential troop deployments.
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In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, high-level U.S. and Russian officials met to discuss improving bilateral relations and ending the war in Ukraine. The talks, led by Secretary of State Rubio and Foreign Minister Lavrov, focused on establishing a consultation mechanism and high-level teams to develop a path towards a sustainable peace in Ukraine. Although Ukraine was not initially included, U.S. officials asserted that Ukraine and its European allies would be consulted and involved in future negotiations. The discussions also included explorations of economic cooperation and investment opportunities as part of a potential resolution.
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Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia sought Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s inclusion in US-Russia talks held in Riyadh on February 18th. However, both the US and Russian delegations refused this, preferring a bilateral meeting. Subsequently, Zelenskyy postponed his planned Saudi Arabia visit, citing the exclusion as a surprise. Following the meeting, the US and Russia reported progress on addressing obstacles to bilateral relations and establishing high-level negotiating groups on the Ukraine conflict.
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Following talks in Saudi Arabia, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that ending the war in Ukraine necessitates concessions from all parties. The U.S. and Russia agreed to restore embassy staffing, establish a peace negotiation team, and increase economic cooperation, marking a thaw in relations. However, the meeting, which excluded Ukrainian officials, prompted concerns from Kyiv and European allies about a potential deal detrimental to their interests. Subsequently, European leaders convened to coordinate their response and emphasized the need for a U.S. security guarantee to deter future Russian aggression.
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U.S. and Russian officials held talks in Saudi Arabia on ending the war in Ukraine, marking the first high-level meeting since the invasion began. While Russian officials described the discussions as “serious,” no significant breakthroughs were announced, with disagreements remaining on core issues. Ukraine’s exclusion from these talks sparked concern among European leaders and President Zelenskyy, who reiterated Ukraine’s refusal to accept any peace deal negotiated without its involvement. Russia’s Foreign Minister Lavrov ruled out territorial concessions to Ukraine.
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High-level U.S. and Russian officials, including their top diplomats, will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss improving bilateral relations and negotiating a resolution to the war in Ukraine. This marks a significant step towards de-escalation and potential future talks between Presidents Trump and Putin, despite concerns from Ukraine and its allies regarding their exclusion from the initial discussions. The meeting aims to gauge Russia’s commitment to peace and explore the possibility of detailed negotiations, although Ukrainian involvement is considered essential for any lasting agreement. Russia has indicated a focus on restoring full diplomatic ties and preparing for potential presidential talks, while rejecting any territorial concessions.
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Ukraine’s unwavering stance is clear: they will not accept any peace deal terms negotiated without their active participation. This fundamental principle underscores the nation’s determination to control its own destiny and reject any imposed solutions.
The idea that Ukraine’s future could be decided by external forces without their consent is unacceptable. The gravity of this situation cannot be overstated; it involves the security of a nation and its people, not just geopolitical strategy.
Ukraine’s refusal to be sidelined highlights the inherent unfairness of such an approach. A peace agreement that excludes a primary party to the conflict is fundamentally flawed and unlikely to achieve lasting stability.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood