Ukraine has not been invited to US-Russia peace talks aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict, igniting frustration from President Zelensky, who insists that any agreements made without Ukraine's participation will not be accepted.
Ongoing Peace Talks Exclude Ukraine, Raising Tensions and Concerns
Ongoing Peace Talks Exclude Ukraine, Raising Tensions and Concerns
Ukrainian President Zelensky insists on Kyiv's involvement in any negotiations, as US-Russia talks proceed without the nation’s delegation.
Kyiv finds itself on the sidelines of crucial peace negotiations between the United States and Russia, as confirmed by a senior Ukrainian official. Despite earlier assurances from US special envoy Keith Kellogg regarding Ukraine's potential involvement, the latest developments indicate an absence of a Ukrainian delegation at the talks scheduled in Saudi Arabia.
European leaders also face exclusion from these discussions, resulting in an emergency summit arranged by French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. This comes amid growing apprehensions that the continent's voice may be overlooked in pivotal negotiations concerning the war in Ukraine.
The recent week was marked by a significant shift in Washington's strategy towards Ukraine. US President Donald Trump announced that his envoy Steve Witkoff had engaged in extensive discussions with President Vladimir Putin, signaling a renewed intent to negotiate an end to hostilities. Witkoff's visit to Moscow aimed to facilitate the release of an American teacher detained on drug charges, further entwining diplomatic efforts.
Trump's administration appears to have rekindled direct communication lines with Russia, characterized by a recent phone call with Putin that ended a three-year freeze in relations. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the Saudi talks would not resolve the conflict overnight, suggesting that a formal negotiation process is still in the works.
Zelensky has made it abundantly clear that he will not endorse any agreements reached without Ukraine's direct input, echoing sentiments voiced in a recent NBC interview where he rejected the notion of decisions being made on behalf of Ukraine.
The talks have ignited a flurry of responses, with Rubio suggesting that the coming days would be critical in assessing Russia’s genuine intentions towards peace. Concurrently, Zelensky advocates for stronger European defense as he asserted that a Russian strike left thousands in Mykolaiv without essential services, exemplifying the ongoing humanitarian crisis amid the war.
As Moscow continues its offensive since invading Ukraine in February 2022, Kyiv remains firm in its demand for involvement in discussions that could shape its future, urging the international community to honor its sovereignty in impending agreements.
