US, Russia start talks in Riyadh on Ukraine conflict
(L to R) US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan al-Saud, National Security Advisor Mosaad bin Mohammad al-Aiban, Russian President Vladimir Putin's foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov, and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov attend a meeting together at Riyadh's Diriyah Palace on February 18, 2025. (AFP Photo)
Officials from the United States and Russia have begun discussions in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, aiming to address bilateral relations and explore potential resolutions to the ongoing war in Ukraine, Russian media reported Tuesday.
Preliminary talks and economic considerations
Ahead of the official discussions, representatives from both countries engaged in informal contacts, according to Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund and a member of the Russian delegation.
Dmitriev highlighted economic losses incurred by American businesses due to their departure from the Russian market, estimating losses exceeding $300 billion.
“Finding joint economic solutions is crucial, not only for the U.S. but also for many other countries that recognize Russia’s market potential,” Dmitriev stated.
Kremlin’s perspective on the discussions
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed on Monday that the talks will cover multiple issues, including Russia-U.S. relations, preparations for possible Ukraine settlement negotiations, and the potential for a future meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump.
Peskov noted that Saudi Arabia was chosen as the host country due to its acceptability to both parties. However, he described discussions on European involvement in Ukrainian settlement negotiations as “premature.”
China calls for broader participation
China has expressed hope for broader international involvement in the peace discussions. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Beijing welcomes all efforts aimed at achieving peace, adding, “At the same time, we hope that all parties and stakeholders can participate in the peace talks in due course.”
