US‑Russia tensions rise as pivotal talks set for Saudi Arabia
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Moscow announced on Monday that talks between the US and Russia in Saudi Arabia are not scheduled for this week. On Tuesday, a meeting will take place between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ukraine's Foreign Minister, Andriy Sybiga.
Many pieces of information provided by Russian media or government representatives serve as propaganda. Such reports are part of the Russian Federation's information war.
Official talks with Russia have not been announced in Washington. Still, the Russian state agency TASS reported that, according to CNN, American representatives were supposed to discuss the war in Ukraine with the Russian delegation.
Difficult talks in Saudi Arabia
The Economist writes, "On March 11th, American and Ukrainian delegations are due to meet in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The American side says the goal is to create a framework for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire."
Meanwhile, Ukraine fears that the negotiations could turn into blackmail, a delay tactic, or an attempt by Donald Trump to force concessions beneficial to Russia.
the key role of Witkoff
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz will lead the American delegation. However, Steve Witkoff, a trusted associate of Trump and his unofficial envoy, is expected to play a key role in the talks.
The Ukrainian side will be represented by Chief of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak, Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and military advisor Pavlo Palisa.
