TRUMP’S Bold Move: US and Russia Talk in Saudi Arabia
— Top U.S. and Russian officials met in Saudi Arabia for nearly four hours, marking the most extensive engagement since the Ukraine conflict began. President Donald TRUMP aims to end the fighting and improve ties with Moscow. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov led the discussions, which they described as a positive first step.
Both sides agreed to set up teams to restore staffing at embassies in Moscow and Washington, which have suffered due to diplomatic expulsions. This move is intended to support Ukraine peace talks and explore economic cooperation opportunities. A Russian official mentioned potential joint energy ventures as part of this effort.
However, this rapprochement could strain the transatlantic alliance between the U.S. and Europe, potentially harming Washington’s standing with Ukraine and other NATO allies relying on American leadership for security. During Joe Biden’s presidency, efforts focused on isolating Russia while defending international order post-World War II. TRUMP’s approach marks a significant shift from these policies as he seeks renewed dialogue with Moscow.
The meeting follows a recent phone call between Trump and Putin, highlighting an intent to mend relations that reached a low after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine under Putin’s orders. This face-to-face discussion was the first substantial diplomatic engagement since January 2022 when former Secretary Antony Blinken held talks with Lav