US and Russia to form teams for Ukraine war negotiations without Kyiv's involvement

The United States and Russia will form teams to negotiate an end to the Ukraine war, marking a shift in U.S. policy. This is the first high-level meeting since Russia's invasion in 2022 and occurred without Ukraine's participation. U.S. officials indicated that discussions may include territorial concessions and security guarantees. Ukraine's President Zelensky stated that Ukraine will not accept Russian demands and emphasized the need for diplomacy following Russia's attacks. The meeting in Riyadh signals a potential end to Russia's diplomatic isolation. Both sides agreed to restore communication, with U.S. officials expressing optimism about future cooperation if the conflict concludes.