The US and Russia are set to meet in Saudi Arabia for talks on the ongoing war in Ukraine, marking the first in-person discussions between the two nations since Russia's invasion.

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will sit down with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Riyadh this morning, but neither Ukraine nor any European countries have been invited to the talks.

The US views the meeting as an initial step to determine Russia's sincerity in ending the war, while Russia claims the focus is on restoring relations with the US.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made it clear that his country will not recognize any agreements made in talks where Ukraine is not involved.

European leaders, who are keen to be included, held an emergency summit yesterday. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized that no decisions should be made without their participation.

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has expressed willingness to send UK troops to Ukraine if a lasting peace deal is reached, though other nations have shown reluctance.

Source: BBC

BDST: 1217 HRS, FEB 18, 2025
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