Talks to end the conflict have primarily involved two key players – Washington and Moscow. However, Kyiv is set to join the negotiations this week in peace talks scheduled with US officials. This comes shortly after the controversial meeting between former US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. What’s interesting is that all these crucial discussions are taking place in Saudi Arabia, a country known more for its oil wealth than its diplomatic prowess.
So, why is Saudi Arabia involved in these talks? For the Gulf state, it presents an opportunity to enhance its international standing. Following the fallout from the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, Saudi Arabia has been keen on improving its image on the global stage. From hosting major sporting events to engaging in diplomatic initiatives, Saudi Arabia is striving to position itself as a key player in regional and international affairs.
In the realm of diplomacy, Saudi Arabia has made significant strides, including fostering ties with Iran, hosting world leaders like Zelenskyy, and participating in peace talks in conflict-ridden regions. By mediating talks between the US, Russia, and Ukraine, Saudi Arabia is reinforcing its role as a dominant force in the Middle East and a leader in the Sunni Muslim world.
The choice of Saudi Arabia as the venue for these talks is not arbitrary. President Trump’s admiration for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Saudi Arabia’s economic influence play a significant role. Trump’s praise for the Crown Prince and Saudi Arabia’s commitment to substantial investments have strengthened ties between the two nations. Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the OPEC+ oil cartel has allowed it to maintain relations with Russia, despite Western sanctions on the Kremlin.
Furthermore, Saudi Arabia’s autocratic government, controlled media, and geographical distance from the conflict in Ukraine provide a conducive environment for confidential negotiations. The privacy afforded by Saudi Arabia enables discussions to proceed discreetly, away from the prying eyes of the media and public scrutiny. This positioning allows Saudi Arabia to showcase itself as a neutral ground for high-stakes diplomatic talks, further solidifying its role in global diplomacy.
In conclusion, the use of
