White House Officials Heading to Saudi Arabia: Official Comments.

White House representative for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, announced that he, along with National Security Advisor Mike Volz, is planning to travel to Saudi Arabia to discuss the cessation of Russia's war against Ukraine. Witkoff noted that meetings will be held at the direction of the president, and they hope for significant progress.

U.S. President Donald Trump also expressed his willingness to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, possibly in Saudi Arabia in the future. He stated that he wants to end this terrible war, and only he can bring all leaders to the negotiating table.

European and Ukrainian officials demand to be included in the negotiations, but Witkoff dismisses accusations of excluding other parties. Volz emphasizes that allies are involved in the negotiations, but leadership belongs to President Trump.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he was not invited to these negotiations and that the country will never agree to deals made behind its back. He called on Europeans to create their own army together with Ukraine.

Donald Trump's Special Representative for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, stated that consultations with Europe will be held, but its participation in peace negotiations is not planned. He explained that although Europe will not be physically present, its interests will be taken into account.

France is also planning to hold a summit of European leaders to discuss the war in Ukraine.