Russia-US Talks Expected in Saudi Arabia, Russian Stock Market Gains

 

On February 17, Russia’s spokesperson Peskov confirmed that Russia and the U.S. will meet in Saudi Arabia on February 18 to discuss Ukraine and other topics. Both sides arrived in Riyadh on February 17.

Meanwhile, Russia’s stock market continued to rise, with the MOEX index gaining 3.87% by the close of trading, marking a 10% increase over the past three days. The RTS index rose by 2.6%.

U.S. markets were closed on February 17 for Washington’s Birthday, with trading set to resume on February 18.

 

Peskov confirmed that Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov and Presidential Aide Ushakov will meet U.S. officials in Riyadh. The talks aim to restore Russia-U.S. relations and lay the groundwork for potential peace talks on Ukraine, while preparing for a possible summit between the two presidents.

Lavrov also stated that Putin and Trump had agreed to restart dialogue on issues like Ukraine, the Middle East, and other regions. Russia is prepared to listen to U.S. views and respond, reporting back to their respective presidents.

The U.S. delegation includes Secretary of State Rubio and National Security Advisor Waltz. Rubio has already arrived in Riyadh.

 

Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that Ukraine was not aware of the U.S.-Russia talks and would not be involved. He emphasized that Ukraine would not accept any agreements made without its participation.

Zelensky called for all countries willing to provide security guarantees to Ukraine to join the talks, stressing that the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant’s security should be included in any agreement.

 

On February 17, European leaders met in Paris to discuss Ukraine and European security. Leaders from France, Germany, the UK, Italy, and Poland attended, along with EU and NATO officials.

The meeting focused on the need for military aid to Ukraine and stronger European defense. The main disagreement was whether to send peacekeeping forces to Ukraine, with the UK supporting the move, while Germany and Spain opposed it.

Macron and Trump Discuss Ukraine Before Meeting

Before the European meeting, French President Macron spoke with U.S. President Trump about Ukraine, the Paris talks, and upcoming U.S.-Russia discussions in Saudi Arabia.

 

China’s UN Representative Fu Cong expressed support for all efforts aimed at peace in Ukraine. He welcomed the U.S.-Russia consensus to start peace talks.

Fu emphasized that China advocates for resolving conflicts through dialogue in line with the UN Charter. While not a party to the Ukraine crisis, China has been actively promoting peace and playing a constructive role in diplomatic efforts.

He called for a fair, durable peace agreement and stressed that Europe should be key in resolving the crisis. China is committed to facilitating peace and ensuring a balanced, sustainable security framework for Europe’s long-term peace.