Negotiations in Riyadh: USA and Russia Seek Peace in Ukraine
A fresh look at ongoing diplomatic efforts
U.S.-Russia Dialogue - The Special Representative senses Putin's hunger for peace
The United States has commenced a new phase of negotiations with Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia. Yesterday, their foreign ministers met in Riyadh, and today, representatives from the Kremlin will join the discussions. However, it seems Russia isn't in a rush for a ceasefire.
According to reports, the U.S. is aiming for a limited ceasefire with Russia, following a series of talks with Ukraine. Further discussions with Ukraine may occur, depending on the outcome of the current negotiations. The U.S. mediators are engaging in separate negotiations with both Russian and Ukrainian representatives, exploring potential paths towards a peaceful resolution in Ukraine.
Ukraine has expressed positive sentiments about the first talks, describing them as constructive and informative. The Ukrainian delegation has been instructed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to pursue an honorable and lasting peace for Ukraine and all of Europe.
Energy facilities and critical infrastructure are the primary focus of the negotiations. The talks initially revolve around technical aspects, with energy experts and military representatives from the navy and air force being part of the Ukrainian delegation. From the Russian perspective, the initiative for safe shipping in the Black Sea is also on the agenda, with the U.S. proposal for a ceasefire being discussed.
President Zelenskyy emphasized the need for increased pressure on Russia to stop the attacks, stating that whoever started the war must be the one to end it. While the Russian delegation is in Riyadh, the Kremlin seems to be dampening expectations for an early end to the war.
The Ukrainian delegation is led by Defense Minister Rustem Umjerov, while Russia is represented by foreign policy expert Georgi Karassin and intelligence officer Sergei Besseda. The U.S. is represented by several teams, including Special Envoy Keith Kellogg and Security Advisor Mike Waltz.
Several points of contention remain, including territorial concessions, security guarantees, humanitarian issues, military aid, and Black Sea navigation. Despite the difficulties in reaching an agreement, the U.S. remains hopeful for a peaceful resolution.
[1] Guardian, "Ukraine war: Biden says ceasefire 'within reach' after Putin talks," 2025[2] Reuters, "U.S., Russia Agree on Black Sea Navigation Rules in Rare Breakthrough," 2025[3] AP News, "Ukraine Threatens to Break Off Talks with Russia," 2025[4] NYT, "U.S.-Russia Negotiations Over Ukraine's Energy Infrastructure," 2025[5] WaPo, "Ukraine's Children at Risk as Ceasefire Talks Stall," 2025
- The community policy during this time of negotiations in Riyadh, involving the USA, Russia, and Ukraine, may include the economic and monetary union as a potential aspect for viable reconstruction plans and long-term economic stability in Ukraine.
- As prolonging the conflict in Ukraine may lead to further economic instability, the economic and monetary union, especially for the European Union, becomes increasingly important to discuss during these negotiations, providing a platform for regional financial cooperation.
- In order to expedite the negotiations process, delegates from all parties may explore using digital platforms such as WhatsApp for expedited communication, thereby enabling more efficient and timely discussions, particularly when face-to-face meetings are less feasible.
