Analysis: There has been no invitation for Ukraine, nor for Europe, to join the talks planned for US and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia, writes Sam Kiley

Summary

A senior White House team, led by Steve Witkoff and Mike Waltz, is traveling to Saudi Arabia to set up Ukraine peace talks, excluding both Ukraine and Europe from negotiations.

This move raises concerns about sidelining key stakeholders while favoring direct U.S.-Russia discussions. European leaders, including Macron and Starmer, are meeting in Paris to respond.

Trump’s team has hinted at lifting Russian sanctions, a stance welcomed by the Kremlin.

NATO allies are wary of U.S. inquiries on security guarantees for Ukraine, fearing strategic leaks.

  • badwetter@kbin.melroy.org
    2·
    6 days ago

    That’s correct, and they’re the active brigades available. I’m a soldier, it takes months to have troops ready for combat, at a minimum 6 months of training. Just because one has a relatively large military means squat. What counts is how many can go to war immediately.

    • Skua@kbin.earth
      16·
      6 days ago

      Why do you equate “not in an EU Battlegroup” to “not able to go to war immediately”? Every EU member retains independent control of their militaries. They do not need to use the EU Battlegroup command structure. In fact they never have, and yet they have still regularly deployed troops.

      • badwetter@kbin.melroy.org
        2·
        6 days ago

        Because I’m a soldier. Europe doesn’t have many combat troops ready to go to war. They’ve relied on America to protect them. And because of DEI, these troops won’t be much of a fighting force when they meet the Russian meat grinder. DEI has no place in the military. They’re supposed to be warriors!