The world is once again talking about Russia’s so-called “peace initiatives,” but this time, the context raises even more concerns. Representatives of the Russian Federation recently flew to Saudi Arabia to meet with a US delegation and discuss issues related to the war in Ukraine. At first glance, this might seem like a step toward de-escalation, but the details of this meeting raise serious questions. The most pressing one: why was Ukraine excluded from the negotiation process?
Context of Aggression: Russia Against Ukraine
The Russian Federation has been waging an aggressive war against Ukraine for over three years. This war has brought thousands of deaths, millions of displaced people, the destruction of cities and villages, and numerous crimes against civilians. Russia systematically violates international law, using terrorist methods such as abductions, torture, rape, and mass killings. In such circumstances, any talks about “peace” without Ukraine’s participation look like an attempt to impose their will and legitimize aggression.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has clearly stated that no negotiations without Ukraine’s participation are acceptable. “We will not accept decisions made behind our backs,” he emphasized. This position is absolutely justified, as any agreements reached without Ukraine would be nothing more than backroom deals aimed at cementing Russian influence.
What Did Russia and the US Discuss?
According to diplomatic sources, Russia and the US are proposing a so-called “three-step peace plan,” which includes:
- Ceasefire – a formal end to active hostilities.
- Elections in Ukraine – which, according to the Russian side, should become a key condition for “settlement.”
- Signing a final agreement – which would likely cement a new status quo.
However, this plan raises serious doubts. First, holding elections during war and under occupation is impossible without violating democratic procedures. Second, Russia has repeatedly demonstrated that it does not adhere to international agreements, as was the case, for example, with the Budapest Memorandum, where Russia guaranteed Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
Moreover, Russian representatives are making new demands that indicate their readiness to continue pressuring Ukraine. For instance, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that “denying Ukraine NATO membership is no longer enough.” She is also demanding the cancellation of the 2008 NATO summit decision in Bucharest, where the Alliance declared the possibility of future membership for Ukraine and Georgia.
Why Is This Dangerous?
Attempts by Russia and the US to negotiate without Ukraine’s participation are not just a violation of international norms but also a direct threat to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Such talks create a precedent where an aggressor state tries to dictate peace terms, ignoring the interests of the victim of aggression.
Additionally, these talks are taking place against the backdrop of Russia’s attempts to restore economic cooperation with the US. Russian delegation member Kirill Dmitriev stated that Russia hopes for the return of American oil companies that previously operated in Russia. This suggests that the Kremlin is trying to use economic pressure to achieve its political goals.
International Community’s Response
The international community must clearly understand that any negotiations with Russia that do not take Ukraine’s interests into account are unacceptable. Europe and other allies of Ukraine must step up their efforts to support our country. We cannot allow decisions about Ukraine’s future to be made without its participation.
Conclusion
The Russia-US talks in Saudi Arabia are not a step toward peace but an attempt to legitimize aggression and impose unacceptable terms on Ukraine. Ukraine has the right to its own voice in determining its future, and the world must respect this right. Any attempts to exclude Ukraine from the negotiation process are not just a mistake but a direct threat to international security and stability.
The world must remember: peace cannot be achieved at the expense of the victim of aggression.