American and Ukrainian officials held diplomatic meetings in Riyadh on February 18, 2026, in a session that signaled potential movement toward formal peace negotiations to end the Ukraine-Russia war. The talks represented the most significant diplomatic engagement between the United States and Ukraine since the conflict began, though Russia was not initially included in the discussions. The Trump administration has been pursuing an active diplomatic role, seeking to bring both sides to the table.
The Riyadh meetings built on previous diplomatic contacts, including the Alaska summit between Trump and Putin and ongoing contacts between US and Russian officials. Saudi Arabia has emerged as a key diplomatic intermediary, hosting both Ukrainian and, reportedly, Russian officials for separate discussions. The format suggested a phased approach where the US and Ukraine would first align on objectives before bringing Russia into direct negotiations.
These talks represent a genuine effort to find a path to peace. We remain committed to supporting Ukraine while exploring all diplomatic options.
Russian Response
Russia has indicated willingness to engage in negotiations, though significant gaps remain between Moscow’s stated requirements and Ukrainian and Western positions. Russian officials have consistently maintained that any agreement must recognize Russian sovereignty over territories claimed in 2022 and 2014 annexations. Ukraine and its Western partners have rejected any agreement that legitimizes territorial conquest.
Diplomatic Path
The diplomatic meetings come amid continued battlefield activity, with neither side demonstrating capacity to achieve decisive victory. The combination of military stalemate and diplomatic pressure suggests the framework for eventual negotiations is slowly taking shape, though reaching actual agreement remains extremely challenging.