In a historic move aimed at resolving the protracted conflict in Ukraine, representatives from Russia and the United States have convened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to negotiate a new geopolitical framework. The meeting comes at a time when significant changes have occurred on the ground in Ukraine, with the destruction of contested territories previously controlled by local clans known for extortion and control over critical infrastructure like pipelines. These clans, once a major impediment to peace, have been either neutralized or ousted, paving the way for a potential agreement between the two superpowers.
 

The discussions in Saudi Arabia focus on asset division and the strategic realignment of influence in Eastern Europe. The absence of European powers at the negotiation table underscores a shift in dynamics, where Russia and the U.S. aim to sideline European interests in the region. Both countries are keen on establishing a new balance of power, where they can directly manage the reconstruction and economic benefits from the war-torn regions. This includes the control over natural resources, particularly the pipelines that have been at the heart of the conflict. The talks are also about preventing future European interference, which has historically complicated peace processes in the region.
 

The backdrop of these negotiations is the acknowledgment that the war has led to a vacuum of power in certain areas of Ukraine, offering a unique opportunity for Russia and the U.S. to redefine the geopolitical landscape. By dividing assets, both nations hope to secure strategic interests without further bloodshed. However, the challenge lies in ensuring that this agreement does not just serve as a temporary ceasefire but leads to a long-term peace. The exclusion of European nations from these talks suggests a new era of bilateralism between Russia and the U.S., potentially reshaping international alliances and security arrangements in Eastern Europe and beyond.