Secret peace talks on Ukraine-Russia conflict revealed in december meeting

In a clandestine meeting held on December 16 in Saudi Arabia, Ukraine, G7 countries, and select Global South nations engaged in confidential discussions regarding potential peace talks with Russia. Bloomberg reported on the meeting, stating that its secrecy aimed to foster a more comfortable and open atmosphere among participating nations. The covert nature of the gathering allowed for a frank exploration of the "peace formula", plans for ongoing negotiations, and the foundational principles for potential future talks with Russia.

Challenges in progress: G7 and global south unity faces roadblocks

However, despite these diplomatic efforts, neither this meeting nor prior consultations have yielded visible progress. Sources familiar with the details reveal that Ukraine and its G7 partners continue to resist the Global South's calls for direct talks with Moscow.

While senior officials from India, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey participated in the December meeting in Riyadh, major Global South players such as China, Brazil, and the United Arab Emirates chose not to send representatives. Notably, the absence of these nations raises questions about the inclusivity and effectiveness of the peace dialogue process.

Kyiv and its G7 counterparts reiterated their steadfast stance that any just peace must uphold Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty. They argue that Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown no serious willingness to engage in constructive negotiations and has not honored previous agreements.

International support amidst stalemate: confidence in future packages

Despite the lack of visible breakthroughs, Ukraine's allies signaled unwavering support, with the EU and the US expressing confidence in forthcoming support packages. To further the peace dialogue, Ukraine and its partners have scheduled another meeting of the enlarged group of advisers in Switzerland next week, on the eve of the World Economic Forum in Davos.

Invitations have been extended to more than 100 countries, emphasizing the international scope and significance of these discussions. Previous meetings took place last year in Copenhagen, Jeddah, and Malta.

In summary, the secret peace talks reveal ongoing challenges in finding common ground between conflicting parties, with the hope that the upcoming meeting in Switzerland will bring about substantive progress in resolving the Ukraine-Russia conflict.