Russia is considering Saudi Arabia and the UAE as venues for potential summits between Presidents Putin and Trump to discuss the Ukraine conflict. Concerns exist among Russian officials regarding the implications of these nations’ ties to the U.S. military. Both leaders express willingness for dialogue, with talks reportedly underway.

Moscow is exploring Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as potential locations for a future summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump. Recent reports indicate that both leaders are keen to meet to discuss resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a situation Trump previously claimed he could settle swiftly.

There have been recent high-level visits by Russian officials to both Gulf nations; however, there are concerns among Russian diplomats regarding the choice of venue. This unease stems from Saudi Arabia’s and the UAE’s strong military and intelligence connections with the United States.

As the discussions progress, Trump has stated that his advisors have engaged in talks with Russian representatives about the Ukraine war. Acknowledging these discussions, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted that contacts were “apparently planned.” While neither Saudi Arabia nor the UAE has enforced Western sanctions on Russia, their leadership has maintained diplomatic relations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Neither of the Gulf States is a member of the International Criminal Court, which issued an arrest warrant for President Putin in 2023 over alleged war crimes. Putin previously visited both nations later that same year. Meanwhile, Russia has ruled out Turkey as a potential summit location due to its involvement in unsuccessful peace initiatives conducted in Istanbul in March 2022.

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which began with Russia’s invasion in February 2022, has prompted calls for diplomatic solutions. Leaders from both Russia and the U.S. have indicated interest in dialogue to resolve the war, reflecting a potential shift in international relations. The choice of venue is significant, as it can influence diplomatic engagement and perceptions of the countries involved. Saudi Arabia and the UAE’s neutral stance, juxtaposed with their connections to both the U.S. and Russia, complicates the situation further, underscoring the need for careful consideration in selecting a summit location.

In summary, Russia is contemplating Saudi Arabia and the UAE as venue options for a possible summit between Presidents Putin and Trump amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine. Despite some opposition from Russian officials due to these nations’ ties with the U.S., President Trump has asserted that discussions are ongoing to address the conflict. The diplomatic landscape remains complex as the Gulf states navigate their relationships with both parties involved.

Original Source: www.themoscowtimes.com

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