The article discusses the ongoing efforts to negotiate an end to the conflict in Ukraine, with a focus on the upcoming meeting between US and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia. Here are the main points:
* Russia has set three conditions for starting negotiations: recognition of Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories, lifting of sanctions on Russia, and denial of Ukraine’s request to join NATO.
* European countries have rejected these demands, while the US has been cautious in discussing potential concessions from Russia.
* Moscow sees no point in inviting Europe to the negotiating table, and prioritizes a dialogue with the US.
* The article suggests that Donald Trump, who is not directly involved in the negotiations but has been briefed on them, may be playing a significant role behind the scenes. His short-term goal is to stop the fighting in Ukraine, while his longer-term aim appears to be less American involvement in the conflict.
* Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that any peace talks without Ukrainian participation would have no result and cannot be recognized.
Overall, the article suggests that the negotiations are complex and challenging, with multiple parties having different priorities and demands. The outcome is uncertain, and many Ukrainians fear that a peace agreement could lead to a third round of war.