Saudi Arabia hosted US-Russia talks on Ukraine, which were contentious and criticized by Ukraine for their exclusion from discussions. Russia’s Foreign Minister asserted the US now understands Russia’s position better, while Saudi Arabia seeks to enhance its diplomatic relations with the US and revitalize its role in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Saudi Arabia recently hosted contentious talks between US and Russian officials concerning the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov indicated that the discussions were fruitful, suggesting that the US now better understands Russia’s stance on the issue. These talks have been criticized by Ukraine for their exclusion from the dialogue, raising concerns about the legitimacy of outcomes reached without Ukrainian input.
The meeting in Riyadh aligns with Saudi Arabia’s strategic goal to enhance relations with the US, which have been strained due to American support for Israel amid escalating violence in Gaza. Lavrov met with influential figures including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, emphasizing the importance of economic cooperation between the nations.
Despite promising discussions, many view these negotiations as a platform for Saudi Arabia to regain influence in international affairs, comparable to powers such as Brazil and India. The kingdom’s hosting of talks signals its desire to extend its diplomatic reach beyond regional matters.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia plans to convene a summit involving Arab nations to discuss proposals related to Gaza, showcasing its intent to lead dialogue in a tense geopolitical landscape. This meeting aims to counter potential plans from the US that may threaten the stability of Palestinian communities.
The talks resulted in a US-Russia agreement to pursue negotiations aimed at conclusively resolving the Ukraine war, focusing on territorial issues and security guarantees. This development follows criticism of the US for hosting discussions regarding Ukraine without Ukrainian participation, emphasizing the ongoing contention surrounding these talks.
The recent US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia represent a complex interplay of diplomatic maneuvering amid the Ukraine conflict. While both countries expressed willingness to negotiate, the exclusion of Ukraine from discussions complicates the legitimacy of any agreements. Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s dual efforts to reassert itself as a significant regional player while striving for peace in Gaza underscore its evolving role on the global stage.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
