Saudi Arabia is hosting upcoming talks between the US and Ukraine in Jeddah following a strained meeting between Zelenskyy and Trump. Concerns arise regarding Saudi Arabia’s neutrality, given its ties with Trump and proximity to Russia. Furthermore, past diplomatic actions signal a complicated relationship with both nations, impacting the potential for a productive dialogue as Ukraine navigates its foreign policy with varying risks.
Saudi Arabia is set to host discussions between the United States and Ukraine in Jeddah, following a tense meeting between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former President Donald Trump. This choice of venue is intended to provide a more neutral atmosphere for negotiations among lower-level officials. Zelenskyy announced his planned trip to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as part of these discussions.
However, questions arise regarding Saudi Arabia’s neutrality in the talks compared to a potential European location. Critics suggest that Saudi Arabia’s role primarily caters to the interests of the Trump administration, as evidenced by Trump’s previous visits and close ties with the kingdom. Despite its pursuit of diplomatic influence, Saudi Arabia’s human rights record prominently features the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, raising further concerns about its suitability as a mediator.
Trump aims for normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel as a cornerstone of regional peace efforts amidst the previous signing of the Abraham Accords. He has historically sought to strengthen ties with Riyadh, which complicates Saudi Arabia’s perceived neutrality. Additionally, Prince Mohammed’s growing relationship with Vladimir Putin has brought further scrutiny, especially regarding the prince’s fascination with Russian power structures and his involvement in US-Russia prisoner exchanges.
Experts have noted that Saudi Arabia has historically refrained from criticizing Russia’s actions in Ukraine, describing Moscow as a pivotal partner within OPEC+. Although Saudi Arabia has voted in favor of UN resolutions addressing the war, it has maintained a careful balance by not overtly isolating Russia diplomatically. Furthermore, the decision to cut oil production in late 2022 reinforced this balance, aligning Saudi economic interests with Russian outcomes, which strained US relations.
Despite its complex relationship with Moscow, Saudi Arabia hosted a peace summit on Ukraine earlier this year, suggesting a nuanced approach in its international diplomacy, though critics contend this may serve to enhance its global reputation. Ukraine’s willingness to engage in discussions in Jeddah can be attributed to the defense minister’s personal connections resulting from previous business dealings in Saudi Arabia.
According to Orysia Lutsevych of Chatham House, the notion of a neutral site for negotiations often overlooks the importance of personal connections and trust. She notes Ukraine’s strategic relationships with the Global South and suggests that Saudi Arabia’s investments in Ukrainian agriculture may further motivate its involvement in peace talks. Ultimately, she warns that while Saudi Arabia’s involvement is welcomed, the significant risk lies within the fluctuating support from the United States, particularly with Trump’s influence looming over American foreign policy.
In summary, Saudi Arabia’s role in hosting talks between the United States and Ukraine raises critical questions regarding its neutrality. While the location aims to facilitate dialogue, the kingdom’s complex relationships with both the US and Russia may complicate trust in its mediation. The historical ties between Saudi Arabia and Trump, coupled with Prince Mohammed’s association with Putin, highlight the nuanced dynamics at play. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these negotiations will depend on the balancing act between these geopolitical interests and the underlying risks for Ukraine amidst American political uncertainties.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
