The U.S. and Russia took a stunning step toward diplomacy Tuesday, with both sides agreeing to work on ending the war in Ukraine and rebuilding their strained relationship.
In a dramatic shift under President Donald Trump, America’s top diplomat, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, announced that the two nations would pursue three key goals: restoring diplomatic staffing, forming a high-level team to assist in Ukraine peace talks, and exploring economic cooperation.
New Approach to Peace Talks
Rubio emphasized that while discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov marked progress, the talks were only the beginning. “There’s a long road ahead,” he warned. Notably, no Ukrainian officials were present, sparking concerns from Kyiv and European allies who fear being sidelined. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made it clear that his country would reject any agreements made without its direct involvement.
U.S.-Russia Relations at a Turning Point
Tensions between Washington and Moscow have hit their lowest point in decades due to diplomatic expulsions and heavy Western sanctions on Russia. However, Rubio hinted at a potential thaw, saying, “Should this conflict come to an acceptable end, the opportunities for geopolitical and economic collaboration with Russia are significant.”
This marks a striking reversal in U.S. policy compared to the Biden administration, which led efforts to isolate Moscow. Tuesday’s meeting is also seen as laying the groundwork for a future Trump-Putin summit, though no date has been set.
Lavrov: ‘We Heard Each Other’
Following the talks, Lavrov described the meeting as “very useful,” echoing Rubio’s three-point framework. He confirmed that both nations would assign representatives for “regular consultations” on Ukraine. “We not only listened but also heard each other,” Lavrov said, suggesting Washington is starting to understand Moscow’s position.
This meeting marks the most in-depth engagement between the two countries since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. While Lavrov previously spoke briefly with former Secretary of State Antony Blinken at a G-20 summit, tensions remained high.
Allies Scramble as U.S. Pushes Ahead
Washington’s new approach has left Ukraine and key European allies scrambling to secure a seat at the table. France quickly convened an emergency EU and UK meeting to discuss the situation. Zelenskyy’s absence at the talks raised concerns, as his participation had been a cornerstone of Biden’s strategy.
Rubio acknowledged that negotiations would require “concessions from all sides” and that Europe would eventually have to be included, particularly regarding sanctions. French President Emmanuel Macron later confirmed he had spoken with both Trump and Zelenskyy, stating, “We seek a strong and lasting peace, but Russia must end its aggression.”
Saudi Arabia Steps Into the Spotlight
The talks took place in Riyadh at the Diriyah Palace, highlighting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s growing diplomatic role. The prince has maintained ties with Russia through OPEC+ and previous negotiations involving Ukraine.
Saudi Arabia has played a key role in past prisoner exchanges and hosted Zelenskyy at an Arab League summit. The Ukrainian leader is expected to visit the kingdom later this week.
Russia Continues Attacks Despite Talks
Even as peace discussions began, Russia launched a massive overnight drone strike on Ukraine, with Kyiv’s military reporting 176 drones deployed. Ukrainian forces managed to destroy most of them, but several hit residential buildings, injuring civilians and forcing evacuations.
As diplomacy gains momentum, the question remains: will these talks bring real progress, or will they merely be a strategic move in a prolonged conflict?
