Russia perceives Saudi Arabia and the UAE as viable locations for a summit between U.S. President Trump and Russian President Putin. Both leaders have expressed willingness to engage in discussions regarding the Ukraine situation and energy cooperation. The relationships with these Middle Eastern leaders are characterized by neutrality amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict, allowing potential for diplomatic reconciliation.
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are being considered by Russia as potential locations for a summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, as reported by informed Russian sources. Trump has expressed his commitment to swiftly conclude the war in Ukraine and has indicated his willingness to meet with Putin. Meanwhile, Putin recognized Trump’s electoral victory and also expressed readiness for discussions focusing on Ukraine and energy issues.
Despite Russian officials denying any ongoing direct communication regarding preparations for a Trump-Putin phone call—which would precede a possible in-person meeting—senior Russian diplomats have reportedly made visits to both Saudi Arabia and the UAE recently. Nevertheless, there exists some resistance among Russian diplomats and intelligence personnel regarding the summit due to the close security ties between these nations and the United States.
Both Presidents Trump and Putin have cultivated amicable relations with the rulers of Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Trump announced that discussions with various parties, including Russia and Ukraine, were scheduled, and Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that contacts were likely planned. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia was among the first world leaders Trump communicated with after assuming office, praising him as “a fantastic guy” during a World Economic Forum address.
In September 2023, President Putin acknowledged Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s efforts that facilitated a significant U.S.-Russian prisoner swap, emphasizing their ongoing partnership. Since their initial meeting in 2015, Putin and bin Salman have strengthened ties, allowing OPEC+ cooperation to persist. Trump has also engaged both Saudi and UAE leadership on oil pricing issues, which may serve as potential leverage in negotiations with Russia.
Throughout the ongoing Ukraine conflict, both Mohammed bin Salman and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan have taken a neutral stance, avoiding criticism and sanctions against Russia, while simultaneously maintaining dialogues with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. President bin Zayed has made several visits to Russia during the war and reiterated his willingness to support peace initiatives in Ukraine.
Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE are not signatories to the International Criminal Court, which issued an arrest warrant for President Putin, complicating his travel to certain countries. Currently, Russian officials have dismissed Turkiye as a potential summit venue despite its historical role in earlier peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.
The discussion surrounding a potential summit between President Trump and President Putin highlights the geopolitical dynamics involving Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Russia views these Middle Eastern nations as neutral grounds that can facilitate dialogue. The relationships built between these leaders over the years reflect mutual interests, particularly in energy cooperation and stability in the region, thus making Saudi Arabia and the UAE suitable options for diplomatic discussions.
In summary, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are emerging as favored venues for a Trump-Putin summit, given the established relationships between the leaders and recent diplomatic activities. Although there is some internal resistance in Russia regarding these meetings, the collaborative history among the involved countries and leaders creates a conducive environment for dialogue aimed at resolving ongoing tensions in Ukraine.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
