In a significant diplomatic move, the United States and Russia engaged in discussions aimed at de-escalating the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met in Saudi Arabia for over four hours on Tuesday, marking a crucial step towards restoring diplomatic relations.

Following the meeting, Secretary Rubio announced the intention to reinstate full diplomatic operations in both Washington and Moscow. He emphasized the importance of functional diplomatic channels for continued progress. Further steps outlined by Rubio include the formation of a specialized team to facilitate negotiations for ending the war, though leadership details remain undisclosed.

The Trump administration also aims to bolster geopolitical and economic ties with Russia. While the specifics of lifting sanctions remain unclear, Rubio acknowledged the eventual necessity of European Union involvement due to their own sanctions regime.

This move has raised concerns about the EU's role in the peace process, with questions arising about their inclusion in negotiations. Rubio addressed these concerns, assuring that no parties are being excluded, while emphasizing President Trump's unique position to mediate the conflict.

The key outcome of the meeting was an agreement for continued engagement among the participants, including Rubio, Lavrov, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, Special Mideast Envoy Steven Witkoff, and Putin's foreign affairs advisor, Yuri Ushakov, to ensure productive progress.

While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cancelled his planned trip to Saudi Arabia, reportedly to avoid legitimizing talks held without Ukrainian representation, retired Lt. General Keith Kellogg, special envoy to Ukraine and Russia, is expected to meet with Zelenskyy in Kyiv this week. Zelenskyy, echoing some EU leaders, insists on coordinated efforts with Kyiv for any ceasefire negotiations.

Zelenskyy stressed the importance of Ukraine, Europe, including the EU, Turkey, and the UK, being involved in discussions and security guarantee development alongside the United States. Reports suggest European leaders are considering a second emergency summit focused on Ukraine and European security. The State Department has not yet commented on these developments.