High-level talks in Riyadh led by Juri Ushakov and U.S. officials focused on the Ukraine conflict, paving the way for a potential Trump-Putin summit aimed at resolving tensions. The absence of European allies and Ukrainian President Zelensky raises concerns about overlooked interests. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman strengthens Saudi Arabia’s role as a mediator, though challenges regarding Gaza complicate his position. As diplomatic efforts unfold, the U.S.-Russia relationship may significantly impact regional dynamics and Saudi influence.
Positive Outcomes from High-Level Talks in Riyadh
Juri Ushakov, a key advisor to Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressed satisfaction following productive discussions held in Riyadh on Tuesday afternoon. Ushakov, alongside Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, met with a U.S. delegation that included Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Middle East advisor Steve Witkoff, and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. The focus of these talks was primarily on the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Implications of the Upcoming Trump-Putin Summit
Newly inaugurated President Donald Trump is eager to resolve the intense conflict that erupted in 2022 due to Russia’s invasion. To achieve this, he is prepared to shift from previous American policies and engage directly with Russia, which had been sidelined in diplomatic discussions. This initial meeting in Riyadh is a precursor to a more significant summit where Trump aims to sit down with Putin to negotiate critical issues, including the potential lifting of sanctions against Russia.
Notably absent from this dialogue were European allies and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who, despite being in the region, was not included in discussions about his country’s future. The formation of negotiation teams was noted, with the State Department emphasizing the importance of considering the needs of all stakeholders. However, the dynamics suggest that European interests may be overlooked as Trump favors direct communication with Moscow.
The diplomatic developments in Riyadh also enhance Saudi Arabia’s status on the global stage. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has positioned himself as a critical mediator in the Ukraine conflict, leveraging his strong ties with Russia and his role in OPEC+ negotiations. His involvement could yield substantial benefits for the kingdom, especially if Trump and Putin’s meeting occurs there.
However, MBS faces challenges on the horizon, particularly regarding the contentious issue of Gaza. While he seeks to maintain his role as a mediator, the possibility of conflict with the Trump administration looms, especially following Trump’s controversial proposals for Gaza’s reconstruction. Saudi Arabia is navigating a complex landscape, striving to assert itself in global affairs while managing regional expectations and sensitivities.
As Riyadh prepares for an upcoming mini-summit focused on Gaza, the outcome remains uncertain. The kingdom is acutely aware that its current diplomatic triumphs may be overshadowed if it cannot effectively address the pressing issues facing the Arab world. The evolving relationship between the U.S. and Russia will undoubtedly reshape the geopolitical landscape, impacting not only Europe but also middle powers like Saudi Arabia, which must tread carefully to maintain their newfound influence.