Why Saudi peace talks are not a bad idea despite Russia’s absence

LONDON – Senior diplomats and security officials from over 30 countries are convening in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah at the weekend in what the organisers call a “summit for peace”, designed to end the war in Ukraine.

But Russia is not participating in the Saudi-hosted talks, so the chances of a settlement remain negligible, even

with China also taking part.

Meanwhile, the Ukraine war is growing in intensity, as both protagonists continue to shift their strategies.