Saudi Arabia and the UAE are being considered as potential locations for a summit between Presidents Trump and Putin. Despite some internal hesitance in Russia regarding U.S. ties, both leaders have established amicable relations with the Gulf states which maintain neutrality in the Ukraine conflict. Discussions regarding peace and diplomatic ties continue, while logistical challenges related to international law pose further complications.
Recent discussions indicate that Russia views Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as potential locations for a summit between United States President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump has expressed a desire to conclude the ongoing conflict in Ukraine swiftly and is amenable to meeting with Putin to address pivotal issues. Although Russian officials have denied any preparatory contact with the U.S. regarding a phone call between the leaders, senior officials have visited both nations recently.
Despite the interest in arranging a summit, there remains some resistance within Russia, as certain diplomats are wary of Saudi Arabia and the UAE’s strong military and security ties to the United States. However, both Trump and Putin have cultivated amicable relationships with the leaders of these Gulf nations, with Trump noting that his administration is in discussions with relevant parties about Ukraine and Russia. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged that contacts between the two powers are reportedly in the works.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was one of the first world leaders Trump connected with post-inauguration, and he has received commendations from Trump. Meanwhile, Putin has expressed gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his assistance in major prisoner swaps involving the U.S. and Russia, enhancing their bilateral relationship since 2015. This camaraderie has also enabled them to uphold their commitments under the Opec+ energy strategy.
Both Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan have publicly maintained a neutral stance regarding the Ukraine conflict, ensuring they do not join Western nations in condemning Russia. They have kept open lines of communication with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, with the UAE having made efforts for diplomatic resolutions and successful prisoner exchanges in the ongoing war.
Neither Saudi Arabia nor the UAE are members of the International Criminal Court, which poses limitations on Putin’s travel due to an arrest warrant issued against him. Russian sources have suggested that Turkey is no longer considered a viable option for hosting potential peace talks following the failed negotiations held in March 2022.
The article centers on the prospects for a summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE emerging as likely venues. It provides insights into Trump’s commitment to resolve the Ukraine conflict swiftly and highlights the diplomatic dynamics and relationships between the leaders of Russia, the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. It also discusses the geopolitical implications of these interactions amid the ongoing war in Ukraine and the global energy landscape.
In summary, the potential summit between Trump and Putin is under consideration, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE recognized as probable venues due to their established relationships with both leaders. Despite some internal opposition in Russia regarding these locations and their ties to the U.S., both Gulf states have maintained neutrality throughout the Ukraine war while facilitating dialogue. As diplomatic efforts continue, the complexities surrounding international law and relations further complicate the situation.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
