The high-level talks between the United States and Russia in Riyadh marked a significant step in efforts to end the war in Ukraine. While Ukraine was not present at the meeting, US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have assured that Kyiv and Europe will be part of the process moving forward.

The key question now is whether the negotiations will lead to a lasting and just resolution that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty. Following the talks, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reiterated Moscow’s firm stance, emphasising that Nato must not only keep Ukraine out but also formally revoke its 2008 pledge that Kyiv would one day join the alliance. He also made clear that Russia would not accept any military presence of Nato countries in Ukraine, even under “another flag” ~ of a peacekeeping mission. This signals that Moscow will continue to push for concessions that reshape the region’s security........

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