Russia is suggesting Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates as possible arabic countries for a meeting to president of Russia Vladimir Putin with American president Donald Trump.
Trump has stated after his inauguration that he will end the war in Ukraine as soon as possible and expressed his readiness to meet with President Putin. In his side, the Russian president after his congratulation to Trump, said he is ready to meet with him and discuss Ukraine war.
Why Putin chooses both Arabic countries?
Actually, both countries are not members of the International Criminal Court, which issued an arrest warrant for Putin, preventing him from traveling to several countries, including Egypt and others.
Russian officials have repeatedly denied any direct contacts with the US regarding preparations for a phone conversation between Trump and Putin, which would precede a possible meeting later this year.
However, according to Russian sources speaking on condition of anonymity, high-ranking Russian officials have visited both Saudi Arabia and the UAE in recent weeks.
Russian sources noted that the idea still under refusal in Russia, as some diplomats and intelligence officials consider both Arabic countries as USA ‘s allies and have close military and security ties.
These relations helped the leaders of the world’s two largest oil exporters reach and maintain the OPEC+ energy agreement. Trump has urged Saudi Arabia and OPEC to reduce oil prices, which could serve as a potential bargaining chip for Russia in negotiations.
Both Mohammed bin Salman and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan have maintained a neutral stance throughout the war in Ukraine, refraining from joining the West in its criticism and sanctions against Russia.
Both leaders also maintain regular contacts with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited Russia several times during the war, stating during his latest visit in October 2024 that he was ready to support peace efforts. The UAE has also successfully mediated prisoner exchanges.
At this stage, Russian sources have ruled out Türkiye, a NATO member where unsuccessful peace talks between Russia and Ukraine took place in March 2022, as a potential venue.
