High-ranking officials from the United States and Russia convened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Tuesday to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and explore avenues for improved bilateral relations. Notably absent from the discussions were representatives from Ukraine.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio led the American delegation, which included National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov headed the Russian delegation, accompanied by Kremlin foreign affairs advisor Yuri Ushakov. Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan and National Security Advisor Musaed al Alban were also present at the outset of the meeting.

This meeting marks a notable shift in the Trump administration's approach to Russia, signaling a move away from the previous policy of isolation. The discussions are intended to pave the way for a direct meeting between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with the aim of initiating negotiations to end the war in Ukraine, as previously stated by President Trump.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his reservations about the talks, stating that Kyiv would not accept any outcomes reached without Ukrainian participation. Russian officials confirmed that the discussions would be strictly bilateral, excluding Ukrainian representatives.

Former defense intelligence officer Rebekah Koffler, speaking on "Fox & Friends First," suggested that Zelenskyy's exclusion stems from his perceived irrelevance due to his presidency having "expired" in May, and Putin's insistence on negotiating only with a "legitimate authority." Koffler further emphasized Trump's commitment to achieving peace in Ukraine, acknowledging the complexities of the situation, particularly given the challenges inherited from the Biden administration.

This meeting represents a significant development in US-Russia relations, which have deteriorated considerably since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine. Prior high-level contacts have been limited, highlighting the significance of this renewed engagement.

Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, underscored the global importance of positive US-Russia relations, emphasizing the potential for collaborative efforts to address global challenges and conflicts.

These diplomatic endeavors have prompted concern among Ukraine and its allies, who are seeking assurances of their involvement in any potential peace agreements. France convened an emergency meeting with European Union members and the UK to discuss a coordinated response. French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed his commitment to a lasting peace in Ukraine, predicated on the cessation of Russian aggression and robust security guarantees for Ukraine.