The world is on edge as U.S. President Donald Trump prepares for a critical conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 18—talks that could shape the future of the war in Ukraine. But before that, tough negotiations are set to unfold in Saudi Arabia, with U.S., Ukrainian, and Russian delegations engaging in back-to-back meetings that could change everything.
The Kremlin has already cast a shadow over the talks, warning that progress will not come easily. “We are only at the beginning of this path,” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated on Russian state television, emphasizing that discussions will be “difficult.”
The Diplomatic Showdown in Riyadh
Ukrainian representatives are set to meet with a U.S. technical delegation in Riyadh on March 23, while Washington will hold separate discussions with both Ukraine and Russia the following day. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the meeting, calling it a pivotal moment for U.S.-Ukraine cooperation.
Meanwhile, U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellog has referred to the diplomatic strategy as “shuttle diplomacy,” as American officials work to mediate between the two warring nations without direct Russia-Ukraine talks.
Moscow’s Hardline Stance on Ceasefire
One of the most contentious issues on the table is a potential ceasefire. The U.S. and Ukraine have reportedly pushed for a full, unconditional 30-day truce, but Russia has outright rejected the proposal, offering instead to halt airstrikes on energy infrastructure. The refusal to commit to a broader ceasefire has left many skeptical about Russia’s true intentions in the talks.
The War Rages On
Despite the diplomatic efforts, the conflict remains as intense as ever. A Russian missile strike in Zaporizhzhia on Friday night killed a family of three, sparking outrage across Ukraine. Meanwhile, Kyiv suffered another wave of drone attacks, leaving multiple casualties and widespread destruction. In retaliation, Russia’s defense ministry claimed to have intercepted 59 Ukrainian drones overnight, primarily over the Rostov and Astrakhan regions.
As negotiations loom, the world watches with bated breath—will diplomacy prevail, or will the war escalate further? The next few days could define the trajectory of this brutal conflict.
