Trump and Putin to Discuss Ukraine Peace Talks in Saudi Arabia

President Trump plans to meet with President Putin in Saudi Arabia to discuss peace talks concerning Ukraine, following a productive phone call. China’s proposal for a summit to facilitate peace further complicates the picture. Trump’s discussions with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy aim to ensure Kyiv’s interests are part of the negotiations, despite concerns over U.S. concessions to Russia.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced his intention to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia for discussions regarding peace talks in Ukraine. This revelation followed their recent, unexpected phone conversation, marking a significant shift in U.S.-Russia relations. China’s proposal to host a summit aimed at ending the ongoing war further complicates international diplomatic efforts.

The conversation between Trump and Putin was described as “lengthy and highly productive,” and Trump emphasized that Ukraine would not be sidelined during these discussions. He remarked on the impracticality of Kyiv’s NATO aspirations, a primary concern for Moscow. Trump stated he and Putin are scheduled to meet in Saudi Arabia soon, with the involvement of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

In response to the developments, China suggested organizing a summit between the two leaders to facilitate peacebuilding in Ukraine. Chinese officials have reached out to Trump’s team, advocating for Beijing’s role in negotiations due to its close ties with Russia. Despite claims of neutrality, China aims to mediate and promote peace talks.

After his call with Putin, Trump contacted Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy reported a “meaningful” dialogue, sharing insights from his discussions with Putin. They agreed to form high-level teams to negotiate potential agreements, which would start working earnestly to resolve the conflict.

The Pentagon expressed concern regarding Trump’s call, interpreting it as a sign that the U.S. might agree to Russia’s conditions, particularly the rejection of Ukraine’s NATO aspirations. However, Trump affirmed no exclusion of Ukraine from talks, and Zelenskyy maintained that Ukraine’s sovereignty remains non-negotiable. Kyiv is seeking firm security guarantees from Washington in any agreement.

Zelenskyy plans to meet with Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the Munich Security Conference, following earlier meetings in Kyiv. Russia’s official statement indicated a shared desire for a long-term settlement, focusing on addressing underlying issues attributed to Western influence in Ukraine. The recent prisoner swaps signal a potential thaw between the nations, reflecting evolving diplomacy in the region.

While Trump maintains a favorable disposition toward Putin, there are growing trepidations in Kyiv and European capitals about the prospective terms of a peace agreement. French, German, and Spanish officials insist on Ukraine’s inclusion in negotiations to secure a just and lasting peace.

In summary, President Trump’s imminent meeting with President Putin in Saudi Arabia signals a potential shift in U.S.-Russia relations concerning the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The involvement of China in facilitating peace talks and the emphasis on addressing Ukraine’s sovereignty and security needs indicate the complexities of reaching a diplomatic resolution. Concerns remain regarding the adequacy of representations from Ukraine and its allies in any negotiations.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com