Saudi Arabia hosted US-Russia talks on Ukraine, aiming to bolster its global influence. Russia indicated progress in understanding with the US, while Ukraine criticized its exclusion. Concurrently, Saudi Arabia is addressing the urgent Gaza crisis, seeking to reaffirm its leadership role in regional politics.
Saudi Arabia recently hosted tense discussions between the United States and Russia regarding the Ukraine conflict in Riyadh. Russia stated that these talks contributed to a better understanding of its stance on Ukraine by the US, amidst criticism from Ukraine for their exclusion from the dialogue. Concurrently, Saudi Arabia is also managing a significant Arab summit addressing the future of Gaza, seeking to strengthen its diplomatic ties with the US, which have been strained due to recent events in Gaza.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and high-ranking US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Lavrov reported that the discussions were productive, conveying that both sides listened and understood each other’s positions. He further implied that there was openness from the US towards lifting sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The ongoing discussions are perceived by Saudi Arabia as an opportunity to repair its relationship with the US, which has been adversely impacted by American support for Israel in the Gaza conflict. Prior to the war in Gaza, Saudi Arabia had intended to normalize relations with Israel, yet the current violence has stalled these efforts. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has sharply criticized Israeli actions, complicating diplomatic relations between Riyadh and Washington.
Analysts suggest these talks indicate Saudi Arabia’s ambition to enhance its status not just as a regional power but also as an influential player on the global stage. By facilitating discussions related to the Ukraine war, Riyadh aims to align itself alongside nations such as South Africa and Brazil as a significant global actor, while also addressing its regional responsibilities in the context of Gaza.
Notably, the forthcoming Arab summit focuses on Gaza and seeks to affirm Saudi Arabia’s leadership role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The kingdom opposes any displacement of Palestinians and strives to offer a counter-proposal to US plans regarding Gaza. By positioning itself as an advocate for Palestinian rights, Saudi Arabia aims to reclaim its role as a peacemaker in the Arab world.
Recent negotiations have led the US and Russia to initiate further discussions to resolve the Ukraine war, with a focus on territory and security guarantees. US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz emphasized the need for a permanent end to hostilities. However, tensions exist with European nations who criticize the US for engaging with Russia without Ukrainian representation, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned, insisting on Ukraine’s inclusion in such discussions.
The recent US-Russia talks hosted by Saudi Arabia reflect the kingdom’s efforts to enhance its diplomatic influence amid complex geopolitical tensions. While Russia claims to have fostered understanding with the US regarding Ukraine, the exclusion of Ukraine from discussions has drawn significant criticism. As Saudi Arabia navigates its regional ambitions concerning Gaza, it seeks to establish itself as a credible peacemaker both in Arab and international contexts, asserting its role in global diplomacy amidst ongoing conflicts.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
