Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Saudi Arabia on Monday to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as Ukraine prepares for crucial talks with U.S. officials on ending the war with Russia.
The United States, once Ukraine’s primary ally, has shifted its stance, now engaging directly with Moscow while reducing military aid and limiting intelligence sharing with Kyiv. However, Saudi Arabia has played a mediating role since Russia’s 2022 invasion, including brokering prisoner exchanges and hosting U.S.-Russia talks last month.
On Tuesday, Ukrainian and U.S. officials will hold formal discussions—the first since a contentious Oval Office meeting between Presidents Zelensky and Trump. The talks are expected to cover a bilateral minerals deal and potential pathways to peace.
