Russia Considers Saudi Arabia and UAE for Trump-Putin Meeting

Russia is considering Saudi Arabia and the UAE as venues for a meeting between Putin and Trump. This follows Trump’s comments about progress in discussing Ukraine. Russian officials have visited these countries, although there is opposition within Russia regarding their close ties to the U.S. Preparations for a call between the two leaders are ongoing, with a focus on ending the war.

Moscow is considering Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as possible locations for a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, as reported by Reuters on February 3, based on information from two Russian sources. This development follows Trump’s comments indicating progress in discussions regarding Ukraine, although he did not provide specific details. The U.S. president has expressed a desire to negotiate a quick resolution to the ongoing war.

Recent reports suggest that senior Russian officials have made visits to both Saudi Arabia and the UAE. However, some Russian diplomats and intelligence personnel are reportedly against this idea due to the significant military and security relations that these countries maintain with the United States. Russian authorities have denied any direct engagements with the U.S. concerning planning for a phone call between Putin and Trump, which is anticipated to take place prior to any face-to-face meeting later this year.

Trump has claimed that Putin is undermining Russia by his reluctance to establish a peace agreement regarding Ukraine, asserting that a resolution would be beneficial for Moscow. Mike Waltz, Trump’s national security adviser, indicated on ABC News dated January 12 that a telephone conversation between Trump and Putin might occur soon. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed on January 24 that Putin is open to discussions with Trump.

Previously, Moscow has dismissed several critical elements of a peace proposal from Trump’s team that suggested freezing the current front lines, delaying Ukraine’s NATO membership by 20 years, and the introduction of European peacekeeping forces. Although Trump has not elaborated specific plans to conclude the war, his administration aims to maintain Ukraine’s independence. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, however, has suggested that mutual concessions from Kyiv and Moscow are essential for achieving a peace deal.

The context of this discussion centers around the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Since the commencement of the war, there have been various international efforts aimed at seeking peace, with U.S. President Trump signaling a commitment to facilitate negotiations. The involvement of nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE underscores their emerging roles as mediators in geopolitical discussions. The relationship between Russia and these Middle Eastern countries, particularly concerning their alliances with the U.S., adds complexity to the potential dialogues.

In summary, Moscow is exploring Saudi Arabia and the UAE as possible locations for a meeting between Putin and Trump, signifying an effort towards diplomatic engagement regarding the Ukraine conflict. Despite internal opposition within Russia regarding these venues, both leaders are expected to hold a preliminary telephone discussion soon. The situation remains fluid, with a strong emphasis on the need for concessions from both sides in order to forge a lasting peace.

Original Source: kyivindependent.com