Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy declared the nation would not participate in upcoming US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, citing lack of invitation. Amid ongoing conflicts, a Russian drone attack in Dolynska injured civilians and damaged housing. While international players, including China and European leaders, advocate for inclusive negotiations, the current developments underscore the geopolitical complexities surrounding the war in Ukraine.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that his country would not participate in the upcoming US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, as Ukraine was not invited. Meanwhile, Andriy Raikovych, the governor of the Kirovohrad region, reported that a Russian drone attack on Dolynska resulted in injuries to a woman and her two children, as well as the evacuation of residents from 38 damaged apartments.

Governor Raikovych described the attack as a “difficult night for the Kirovohrad region,” noting that the drone targeted a high-rise building resulting in hospitalization for the injured. In the context of the US-Russia discussions, China’s UN envoy asserted that all relevant parties should be involved, mirroring sentiments expressed by several European leaders regarding the importance of Ukraine’s inclusion in negotiations.

Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia’s sovereign wealth fund, emphasized the significance of the planned US-Russia talks in Riyadh and noted that substantial economic losses were incurred by US businesses exiting Russia. He highlighted a potential future where major US firms may return to the Russian market. Contrarily, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov assured that the start of US-Russia negotiations would not hinder cooperation with Iran, particularly concerning its nuclear program.

In an ongoing attempt to revive dialogue, former President Donald Trump is dispatching his top diplomat, Marco Rubio, to engage with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, thereby sidelining not only President Zelenskyy but also European officials. European leaders articulated their readiness to provide security guarantees to Ukraine and cautioned against a ceasefire that lacks a solid peace agreement with Moscow, expressed during a recent meeting initiated by French President Emmanuel Macron.

In summary, the exclusion of Ukraine from the upcoming US-Russia talks highlights ongoing tensions and the complexities of the diplomatic landscape. Despite assurances from international actors regarding support for Ukraine, the absence of its leadership raises concerns about the legitimacy and outcomes of prospective negotiations. The geopolitical implications of these developments extend beyond the immediate region, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and inclusive dialogue.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com

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