**US and Russia Hold Talks in Saudi Arabia**
The United States and Russia have held talks in Saudi Arabia. This is a big deal because it shows that Russia is being invited to the “top table” of global diplomacy.
Russia had been at war with Ukraine for three years, but now it’s sitting down with US officials to discuss peace. This looks like the US is letting Russia set the terms, rather than forcing Russia to agree to certain conditions.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the two sides have agreed on the first steps towards negotiations. However, this has been met with skepticism by Ukraine and its allies.
**Russia’s Record Not Forgotten**
The fact that Russia was invited to these talks despite its record in Ukraine is concerning. Russia has been accused of using brutal tactics against civilians, including targeting their energy infrastructure.
It’s not just the actions of Russia that are being ignored, but also its intentions. Russia has made it clear that it wants to maintain control over parts of Ukraine and will not let it join NATO or get back occupied land.
**Implications for Ukraine**
The US administration’s willingness to engage with Russia on these terms is a concern for Ukraine’s allies. It looks like the US is willing to “lay the ground” for future investment, which could be seen as a way of dropping sanctions and rewarding Russia for its aggression.
This may not seem like much now, but it could have serious implications for Ukraine in the long run. The country will need help from its allies to rebuild and recover from the war.
**Russia’s View**
From Russia’s perspective, this meeting is a sign that they are being welcomed back into the international community as an equal. Moscow sees itself as having won back its status as a global power and is eager to capitalize on it.
However, it remains to be seen what will come out of these talks and how Ukraine will fare in the long run.
Read More @ www.bbc.com