US‑Russia talks in Riyadh tackle 'sensitive' war issues
In the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh, talks between the US and Russian delegations on the war in Ukraine concluded on Monday evening, Eastern Time, as reported by the AFP news agency, citing Russian media. The discussion lasted 12 hours.
After 12 hours, the talks between the US and Russian delegations in Riyadh concerning the war in Ukraine concluded.
The independent Russian portal Meduza reported that a joint statement by Russia and the United States will be published on Tuesday. Meduza cites the TASS and RIA Novosti news agencies.
According to Meduza, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov previously stated that expert groups from Moscow and Washington do not plan to sign any documents following the "consultations in Riyadh".
US-Russia talks. "Sensitive" issues discussed
The Russian side was represented by, among others, two diplomats who are subject to Western sanctions: Grigory Karasin, a former diplomat currently heading the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Federation Council (the upper house of parliament), and Sergei Beseda, an advisor to the head of the Federal Security Service (FSB). Media and commentators note that these individuals do not wield real influence over the Kremlin's decisions.
According to the Interfax agency, during a break in the talks after nearly three hours, Karasin assessed that they are proceeding "creatively" and that both sides are discussing issues considered "sensitive" in bilateral relations.
Earlier on Sunday, the US and Ukrainian delegations met in Riyadh. Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, leading the Ukrainian team, reported that the talks were "productive and focused." They discussed security issues, protection of energy facilities, and critical infrastructure.
