US and Russia hold extensive talks in Saudi Arabia to discuss Ukraine conflict

U.S. and Russian officials held their first extensive talks since the Ukraine conflict began, meeting for nearly four hours in Saudi Arabia. They discussed restoring diplomatic relations and agreed to form teams to explore a negotiated end to the conflict. The discussions included plans to appoint new ambassadors and improve embassy operations. Both sides aim to engage in peace negotiations, although Ukraine and European nations were not part of the talks, raising concerns about their exclusion. U.S. officials indicated that concessions may be necessary to end the conflict, but specifics were not disclosed. Russia suggested potential joint energy projects, signaling a possible shift towards cooperation if peace is achieved.