On February 18, 2025, Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, became the center of global attention as high-level talks between Russian and U.S. delegations occurred, seeking to mend their strained relationship and discuss peaceful solutions to the conflict in Ukraine. The meeting commenced at 10:30 AM local time at the Al Diriyah Palace within the royal complex of Albasateen.
Key figures from both nations attended the negotiations. The Russian delegation included Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Presidential Assistant Yuri Ushakov, and Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund. The U.S. was represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman played the role of mediator during these discussions.
The four-and-a-half-hour dialogue was marked by significant exchanges on pressing issues. Lavrov stated, “The talks between the Russian and U.S. delegations went well, with the U.S. starting to understand Russia's position more clearly,” as reported by RIA Novosti, underlining the constructive nature of the discussions. The meeting indicated both nations' commitment to rekindling diplomatic exchanges hampered by recent tensions.
During the meeting, Lavrov expressed optimism over the outcome, emphasizing, “This meeting underscored mutual interests in reestablishing communication lines disrupted by previous expulsions.” One of the primary agreements reached was to prioritize resolving issues surrounding ambassadorial appointments, highlighting the necessity of functional diplomatic channels. Lavrov confirmed, “Moscow and Washington committed to appointing ambassadors to each other's capitals soon.”
Ushakov echoed these sentiments, stating, “We have agreed to establish respective high-level teams to work on ending the conflict in Ukraine as soon as possible.” He noted the discussions addressed several geopolitical conflicts and included talk about the issue of Ukraine with regards to NATO’s influence, which Russia perceives as a direct threat.
Rubio also remarked on the negotiations' constructive atmosphere, pointing out the focus was placed on establishing committees to facilitate discussions about the Ukraine conflict and to cooperate on economic ties moving forward. “To normalize the operation of our embassies... we need functioning and operational diplomatic facilities,” he asserted, setting the stage for practical measures to address past hostilities.
While both sides engaged seriously, Ushakov warned of uncertainty about the specific timing for the anticipated summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting the complex nature of achieving concrete agreements.
“We have discussed and outlined principled positions, agreeing to send separate negotiating teams to address specific themes at appropriate times,” Ushakov elaborated, maintaining cautious optimism about potential future collaborations.
The meeting culminated with discussions on several pressing issues, including economic partnerships. It is clear both parties recognize the mutual benefits of reestablishing effective dialogue. Reports indicate there were positive sentiments from both sides, with Kirill Dmitriev commenting on the meetings being respectful and conducive to listening and resolution-finding.
Overall, the high-level negotiations held on this significant day reflect not just the immediate concerns over Ukraine and the associated diplomatic ties but also broader geopolitical interests where both nations have overlapping pathways to navigate. With the backdrop of discussions so multifaceted, the potential for agreements and future peace depends heavily on the proactive engagement established during these talks.