President Donald Trump announced plans for a potential summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Saudi Arabia has emerged as a leading contender to host the meeting. The decision, which might initially seem unconventional, is underpinned by strategic considerations that make the Gulf kingdom a compelling choice for Trump and his advisers.
Historically, meetings between American and Russian leaders have been held in European cities like Geneva, Helsinki, and Vienna, where geopolitical dynamics between the West and Russia are acutely felt. However, the current climate surrounding the Russia-Ukraine conflict has led to a reevaluation of potential venues. European nations have largely condemned Russia's actions and supported Ukraine, potentially skewing any summit in Europe's favor.
In contrast, Saudi Arabia has maintained a neutral stance regarding the conflict, abstaining from criticism of Moscow and refraining from imposing sanctions. This neutrality positions Saudi Arabia as an impartial ground for negotiations. Additionally, Saudi Arabia is not a member of the International Criminal Court, which has issued a warrant for Putin, allowing him to travel there without the threat of arrest.
The relationship between Trump and Saudi Arabia's de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), further enhances the kingdom's appeal as a summit venue. MBS has established a close rapport with Trump, evidenced by his status as the first foreign leader to speak with Trump after his inauguration. Their connection extends beyond personal ties; MBS has demonstrated his influence on the global stage by playing pivotal roles in diplomatic negotiations, including facilitating prisoner swaps between the US and Russia.
MBS's ability to maintain a working relationship with Putin, despite the latter's international controversies, is another factor in Saudi Arabia's favor. Both leaders share certain autocratic tendencies, including suppressing dissent, which might enable a more seamless dialogue between them.
Trump's statement in the Oval Office emphasized the advantages of Saudi Arabia as a host, saying, "We know the crown prince, and I think it'd be a very good place to be." This sentiment underscores the strategic and personal motivations behind the choice, as MBS's ambitions align with Trump's objectives of projecting influence and fostering diplomatic breakthroughs.
As MBS seeks to enhance his stature as a key international figure, the Ukraine crisis presents an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to assert itself as a mediator. The kingdom previously hosted a peace summit in Jeddah, demonstrating its capacity to convene high-stakes discussions.
Steve Witkoff, Trump's envoy involved in the recent US-Russia prisoner swap, highlighted MBS's behind-the-scenes efforts, stating, "He has a very strong friendship with President Trump and behind the scenes he was encouraging and using and looking for the right result and it was helpful, it really was." This collaboration exemplifies the mutual benefits that a Saudi-hosted summit could offer.
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia's neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, coupled with MBS's diplomatic acumen and strong ties to both Trump and Putin, positions the kingdom as an advantageous venue for a potential summit. As Trump navigates the complexities of international diplomacy, Saudi Arabia emerges as a strategic partner capable of facilitating meaningful dialogue.
Copyright ⓒ 경기연합신문 무단 전재 및 재배포 금지
본 콘텐츠는 뉴스픽 파트너스에서 공유된 콘텐츠입니다.
