In a significant diplomatic move, the United States and Russia are set to engage in peace talks in Saudi Arabia, aiming to find a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, and Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff will represent the U.S. in discussions with a Russian delegation, including Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and foreign affairs advisor Yuri Ushakov.

Ahead of the talks, Secretary Rubio concluded a visit to the Middle East, meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan al-Saud in Riyadh. These meetings followed a trip to Israel, marking Rubio's first visit to the region as Secretary of State.

Secretary Rubio with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. (EVELYN HOCKSTEIN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Secretary Rubio with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan al-Saud. (EVELYN HOCKSTEIN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

While Ukrainian officials will not be present at the initial talks, their involvement is considered essential for any substantive peace negotiations. The discussions are intended to gauge Russia's commitment to peace and explore the potential for future negotiations, potentially paving the way for a summit between President Trump and President Putin. President Trump has indicated that he spoke with both Putin and Zelenskyy, emphasizing that Zelenskyy would be involved in the process, though specifics remain unclear.

The U.S.-Russia meeting comes as French President Emmanuel Macron convenes a meeting of European powers in Paris to address the Ukraine crisis. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine was not invited to the U.S.-Russia talks and will not accept any outcome if Kyiv is not a participant. He plans to visit Turkey and Saudi Arabia but insists these trips are unrelated to the talks.

Secretary Rubio, Michael Waltz, and U.S. charge d'affaires Alison Dilworth meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Steve Witkoff was also present. (EVELYN HOCKSTEIN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

National Security Advisor Waltz has emphasized the importance of securing a lasting peace and highlighted the need for European-led long-term security guarantees. He also addressed the significant U.S. aid provided to Ukraine, suggesting the American public deserves some return on their investment. Waltz further rejected claims that European allies are being excluded from the peace process, citing recent meetings between U.S. officials and European leaders.