Unlocking Diplomacy: Why Saudi Arabia is Taking the Lead in US-Russia Talks

Saudi Arabia is set to host key officials from the U.S. and Russia for important discussions on Tuesday. This meeting highlights the kingdom’s ambition to play a bigger role in international mediation, particularly regarding the ongoing situation in Gaza after the war.

During this meeting, the Saudi team, led by the national security adviser, aims to facilitate dialogue rather than just act as a host. This proactive approach demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s desire to influence outcomes on the global stage.

The choice of location for this meeting has been seen as favorable by both the U.S. and Russia, providing a significant boost to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s efforts to reshape his nation’s image from a regional power to a significant global player.

According to Saudi commentator Ali Shihabi, the kingdom gains prestige from hosting such discussions. This event bolsters Saudi Arabia’s soft power both regionally and globally.

Over the past years, Saudi Arabia has shifted towards a more neutral stance in global conflicts. This change aims to attract investments that support “Vision 2030,” the crown prince’s plan to diversify the economy beyond oil. He has scaled back military action in Yemen, improved relations with Iran, and maintained ties with both China and Russia while keeping strong relationships with Western nations.

The kingdom is not new to diplomacy. Alongside cultural events like boxing matches and music festivals, Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a peacekeeper. It recently hosted a significant peace summit focused on Ukraine and pledged substantial aid to the country.

Mohammed bin Salman’s strong relationships with both U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have been crucial. Following the controversial killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, the crown prince faced international backlash, but Trump provided support, which helped solidify their ties.

In 2017, Trump made Saudi Arabia the first stop on his initial foreign trip, breaking from tradition. Even after leaving office in 2020, strong business connections remained, including significant investments in a firm led by Jared Kushner.

As the kingdom navigates its relationships, it has also maintained a cooperative rapport with Putin, refusing to cut ties amid international pressures related to the Ukraine conflict. The crown prince has taken an active role in shaping oil production discussions, sometimes siding with the Kremlin against U.S. interests.

Analysts suggest that Saudi Arabia’s balanced approach in a polarized world is paying off. The crown prince was instrumental in securing the release of an American teacher from Russian custody and has participated in multiple prisoner exchanges amid the Ukraine crisis.

On the eve of negotiations with Russia, Saudi officials met with U.S. representatives in Riyadh. Meanwhile, President Zelensky of Ukraine is traveling to Saudi Arabia for discussions separate from the U.S.-Russia talks.

Notably absent from Tuesday’s discussions will be Ukraine. European leaders are reacting to this gap, convening in Paris to strategize in response to the talks in Saudi Arabia, signaling a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy focus.

Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia may leverage its mediation role to discuss a sensitive issue: Trump’s provocative idea of relocating Gaza’s residents to facilitate peace. Trump’s vision involves high-end development in Gaza, which has received swift backlash from Arab nations.

This week, Arab states will gather in Saudi Arabia to craft a united stance against the proposal. The meeting will present alternative solutions to address the situation in Gaza before further discussions with Trump.

By aiding in the resolution of the Ukraine war, Saudi Arabia aims to strengthen ties with Washington. As it prepares for an upcoming mini-Arab summit, the kingdom hopes to act as a bridge connecting U.S. sentiments with those of Arab nations regarding Gaza.

However, balancing interests may prove challenging. While Trump seeks to enhance Saudi-Israeli ties, growing resentment in the Middle East over ongoing military actions in Gaza will complicate discussions.

The kingdom maintains that peace is unattainable without recognizing the rights of Palestinians, asserting this commitment in response to Trump’s controversial proposals.