Russian sources suggest that Saudi Arabia and the UAE are likely candidates for a potential summit between Trump and Putin, aimed at discussing Ukraine and energy issues. While there are hesitations due to U.S. alliances, both leaders have established relationships with these Gulf nations, which may provide a neutral ground for dialogue.
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are being considered by Russia as two potential locations for an upcoming summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Although there have been no direct communications regarding this meeting, discussions about it are ongoing among Russian officials. Notably, both leaders have expressed interest in addressing issues such as the conflict in Ukraine and energy cooperation.
In recent months, senior Russian diplomats have made visits to both Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Despite this, there is some reluctance in Moscow regarding the location, owing to the close ties between these Gulf states and the United States. The Kremlin has remained silent on the matter, and both Trump and Putin share amicable relationships with the rulers of these nations.
Trump has indicated that his administration is scheduling talks involving various stakeholders, including Russia and Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov acknowledged that some form of contact was anticipated. Notably, after assuming office, Trump reached out to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman first, praising him publicly at the World Economic Forum.
Putin has also cultivated a relationship with Mohammed bin Salman since their first meeting in 2015, which has helped solidify the OPEC+ energy agreement. Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE have maintained a neutral stance since the outset of the Ukraine conflict, opting not to join Western sanctions against Russia while also keeping communication channels open with Ukraine’s President Zelenskiy.
The Russian sources have since ruled out Turkey as a potential summit location, focusing instead on Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Analyst Fyodor Lukyanov suggested that with the majority of the West involved in supporting Ukraine, traditional venues like Helsinki or Geneva are no longer viable. He added that although both Gulf states are aligned closely with the U.S., they remain suitable for negotiations.
The article discusses the potential for a U.S.-Russia summit to be held in Saudi Arabia or the UAE, highlighting how both countries play critical roles in the energy landscape and geopolitical dynamics amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The article underscores the complexity of international relations in this context, with the Gulf states balancing their ties with both superpowers while remaining neutral in the dispute. It further emphasizes the logistical challenges posed by Western involvement in the Ukraine scenario and the pertinence of selecting appropriate venues for high-stakes discussions.
In summary, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are emerging as possible venues for an anticipated summit between Trump and Putin. This consideration occurs against a backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions over Ukraine, with both leaders eager to engage on various issues. Despite the potential challenges due to close U.S. ties, the Gulf states’ positions as neutral parties may facilitate necessary negotiations in this delicate situation.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
