US and Russia hold talks on Ukraine without Ukrainian officials present

US and Russian officials held talks in Riyadh, marking a shift in relations as they discussed the war in Ukraine without Ukrainian representation. They pledged to form high-level teams to seek an enduring resolution and explore lifting sanctions. The meeting indicates a potential reset in US-Russia ties under President Trump, who aims to improve relations with President Putin. This contrasts with previous US policy, which prioritized Ukraine's involvement in negotiations. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy expressed surprise and concern over being excluded from the discussions. European leaders are alarmed by the US approach, prompting them to prepare a new defense support package for Ukraine.