Trump Attributes Ukraine Conflict to Kyiv, Defends Exclusion from US-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia

In a recent press briefing at his Mar-a-Lago estate, President Donald Trump suggested that Ukraine bears responsibility for the ongoing war with Russia, asserting that Kyiv "should have never started it." These remarks come in the wake of high-level discussions between U.S. and Russian officials in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from which Ukraine and European nations were notably absent.

The Riyadh talks, led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, marked the most extensive diplomatic engagement between the two nations since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The discussions spanned four hours and concluded with an agreement to establish teams aimed at restoring embassy operations and exploring avenues to support peace negotiations in Ukraine. Notably, potential U.S.-Russian cooperation in energy ventures was also on the agenda, with hints at the possibility of lifting certain U.S. sanctions against Russia. 

President Trump's comments have ignited controversy, as he appeared to place the onus on Ukraine for the conflict's inception. He stated, "Today I heard, well, we weren't invited. Well, you've been there for three years. You should have ended it three years [ago]. You should have never started it." This perspective implies that Ukrainian leadership could have averted the war through earlier concessions or negotiations with Russia.

The exclusion of Ukraine and European allies from the Riyadh talks has raised concerns about the transparency and inclusivity of the peace process. U.S. officials, however, have emphasized that there is no intention to sideline these stakeholders in future negotiations. Secretary Rubio remarked, "No one is being sidelined here. Obviously, there's going to be engagement and consultation with Ukraine, with our partners in Europe and others. But ultimately, the Russian side will be indispensable to this effort."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed dissatisfaction with Ukraine's exclusion from the talks, postponing a planned visit to Saudi Arabia to avoid any association with the U.S.-Russia discussions. In response to President Trump's assertions, Zelenskyy countered that such remarks reflect a misunderstanding of the situation and may inadvertently echo Russian disinformation narratives.

The Kremlin has indicated that a meeting between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin could occur before the end of February, though preparations for such a summit may require additional time. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the potential significance of a face-to-face meeting in resolving the Ukraine conflict but cautioned that substantial groundwork remains necessary.

Critics argue that President Trump's approach, which appears to favor mending ties with Moscow at the potential expense of longstanding alliances, could undermine the transatlantic partnership and diminish U.S. credibility among NATO allies. The decision to engage in bilateral talks with Russia, excluding key stakeholders directly affected by the conflict, has been met with skepticism and concern from various quarters.

As the situation develops, the international community remains watchful, recognizing that the path to a sustainable and just resolution in Ukraine necessitates inclusive dialogue that respects the sovereignty and agency of all parties involved.