Saudi Arabia and the UAE are potential venues for a Trump-Putin summit as both leaders pursue dialogue regarding the Ukraine war. Trump expresses readiness to meet, while Putin acknowledges efforts to organize discussions. Diplomatic ties between the leaders and the Gulf states may support ongoing negotiations despite some Russian reservations.
Recent discussions indicate that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates may serve as potential venues for a summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to sources familiar with the matter. President Trump has expressed intentions to promptly end the war in Ukraine and has shown willingness for a meeting with Putin, who has similarly indicated readiness to discuss key issues such as Ukraine and energy.
Despite repeated Russian official denials regarding direct contacts with the U.S. about scheduling a phone call with Trump, senior Russian officials have visited the Gulf states recently. These visits suggest ongoing discussions, although some Russian diplomats express concerns due to the close military ties between the Kingdom, the UAE, and the U.S.
Both Trump and Putin maintain amicable relationships with the leadership of Saudi Arabia and the UAE. In a recent statement, Trump mentioned having scheduled meetings with various parties, including those involved in the Ukraine conflict. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov hinted that such contacts are likely being arranged.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was the first foreign leader to receive a call from Trump upon his inauguration. Trump praised him during a speech at the World Economic Forum, reflecting the positive dynamics of their relationship. Additionally, Putin has acknowledged Prince Mohammed’s role in facilitating significant diplomatic actions, including a major prisoner swap.
Since establishing their connection in 2015, Putin and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have collaborated effectively, particularly in maintaining the OPEC+ energy agreement. President Trump has also urged Saudi Arabia to assist in lowering oil prices, presenting a potential negotiation element in forthcoming discussions.
Both leaders, Mohammed bin Salman and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, have maintained a neutral stance regarding the Ukraine conflict, avoiding alignment with Western sanctions against Russia, while consistently communicating with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. President Mohammed bin Zayed has made several trips to Russia, advocating for peace efforts in Ukraine during recent visits.
This article discusses the possibility of a summit between the leaders of the United States and Russia being held in Saudi Arabia or the UAE. The context revolves around ongoing geopolitical tensions and the war in Ukraine, with each leader signaling interest in a resolution. The relationship between Gulf states and both nations plays a pivotal role in the dynamics of this potential meeting.
In summary, the prospect of a Trump-Putin summit in Saudi Arabia or the UAE highlights the evolving relationships between these leaders and the Gulf states. Despite internal Russian opposition, the amiable ties between Putin, Trump, and Gulf leadership may facilitate discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing war in Ukraine, with both leaders keen on establishing communication.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
