Trump Initiates Ukraine Peace Negotiations with Putin in Saudi Arabia

President Trump has commenced talks to end the conflict in Ukraine, planning a meeting with President Putin in Saudi Arabia. Conversations with both leaders have indicated a swift push towards resolution, though Ukraine will not be included in discussions. The U.S. administration emphasizes realistic terms for peace, including potential concessions from Ukraine regarding Crimea and NATO membership.

In a recent announcement, President Donald Trump revealed plans to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The exact timeline for this meeting is yet to be determined, and Ukraine will not be part of the discussions. Trump confirmed that official talks aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war have commenced, following recent calls between him and both leaders and the appointment of a dedicated negotiating team.

Trump conducted his initial call with Putin since taking office and also spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, marking an escalation in U.S. diplomatic efforts just weeks into Trump’s presidency. He has committed to resolving the conflict soon, aiming to conclude hostilities within six months, as emphasized during his 2024 campaign.

Further, during a visit to Europe, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated that Ukraine might have to concede Crimea and abandon its NATO ambitions to achieve peace. Trump echoed this sentiment, suggesting that a return to Ukraine’s previous borders would not be feasible.

The Kremlin responded positively, with Putin inviting Trump to Russia, while Trump mentioned the possibility of a reciprocal visit. Additionally, Trump announced a reshuffle of his negotiation team, appointing Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe among others, while existing envoy Keith Kellogg continues to play a supportive role.

As Trump discussed the conflict, members of his Cabinet were engaged in diplomatic missions in Europe. Hegseth made it clear that the U.S. does not see NATO membership for Ukraine as realistic and proposed that any security guarantees must involve international peacekeeping forces rather than American troops. This stance aligns with previous statements made by Zelenskyy, asserting that security guarantees from Europe alone would not suffice.

President Trump has initiated peace discussions regarding the Ukraine conflict, collaborating closely with President Putin while notably excluding Ukraine from these critical talks. His recent engagements signal a determined approach to resolve the war, albeit with significant concessions suggested for Ukraine. Additionally, the U.S. administration emphasizes a strategy that necessitates international cooperation for security without direct military involvement from American forces.

Original Source: www.usatoday.com