U.S. President Trump plans to meet Russian President Putin in Saudi Arabia for peace negotiations regarding Ukraine, marking a thaw in relations. China has proposed hosting a summit to assist in peace efforts. Trump also spoke with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, affirming collaborative initiatives while expressions of concern regarding Ukraine’s future role in these discussions arise. The situation highlights the delicate balance of negotiations influenced by geopolitical dynamics.
On February 12, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia for peace talks regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This development follows a recent phone call between the leaders, marking a significant improvement in relations since Trump’s return to the White House. China has proposed hosting a summit to facilitate these negotiations and promote peace efforts following a potential ceasefire.
In their first direct contact since the invasion of Ukraine, Trump characterized the conversation with Putin as “lengthy and highly productive.” During this call, both agreed that it is time to collaborate, while concerns were raised regarding the exclusion of Ukraine from discussions affecting its future. Trump noted that while NATO membership for Ukraine is not “practical,” he aimed for an inclusive dialogue.
Trump conveyed expectations for the meeting with Putin to occur soon, potentially in Saudi Arabia, with assistance from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Kremlin reported that the discussion lasted an hour and a half, emphasizing the need for cooperation between the two leaders. Additionally, an invitation for Trump to visit Moscow was extended by Putin.
China’s involvement arose from its proposal for a summit between Trump and Putin, aiming to end the Ukraine conflict. Chinese officials recently communicated with Trump’s team to explore this summit idea, urging cooperation given China’s strategic relationship with Russia. China has maintained that it does not take sides in the crisis but advocates for peace negotiations based on its terms.
After his discussion with Putin, Trump also reached out to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who had not been included in the prior calls. Zelenskyy characterized their conversation as “meaningful,” sharing insights from his dialogue with Putin. Both leaders expressed mutual desires for peace, with a commitment to establish high-level teams to negotiate a resolution moving forward.
However, concerns were raised following Trump’s conversations, with critics arguing that they indicated U.S. acquiescence to Russian demands. Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth had characterized Ukraine’s aspirations to restore pre-2014 borders and NATO membership as unattainable goals corresponding with Moscow’s interests. Ukraine reasserted the necessity of retaining its sovereignty and independence as non-negotiable elements during these discussions.
Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the Munich Security Conference, underscoring ongoing diplomatic efforts. The Kremlin acknowledged Trump’s call as a step towards resolving the conflict but emphasized addressing what it views as the conflict’s fundamental causes stemming from Western influence over Ukraine.
A recent prisoner swap between the U.S. and Russia hints at a potential thaw in relations, with Trump expressing admiration for Putin and acknowledging his role in the negotiation. However, skepticism persists among Kyiv’s leadership and European allies about the formation of any agreement without Ukrainian involvement, as underscored by statements from foreign ministers of France, Germany, and Spain.
The upcoming meeting between Trump and Putin in Saudi Arabia signifies a pivotal moment in U.S.-Russia relations amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Both leaders expressed a desire for peace, although Ukrainian sovereignty and involvement remain critical concerns. China’s proposal for a summit adds a layer of international diplomacy, aiming to facilitate discussions between the conflicting parties. The overarching sentiment reflects apprehension about Russian preconditions influencing the peace process, which requires careful navigation to ensure a just outcome for Ukraine predicated on its national interests.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
