Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will visit Saudi Arabia, highlighting Riyadh’s aspirations to become a global mediator in conflicts, particularly between Kyiv and Moscow. This shift from regional power to diplomacy signifies a change in international relations, although Saudi Arabia’s controversial human rights record remains a significant concern as it seeks to reshape its global image.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to arrive in Saudi Arabia on Monday as Riyadh aims to establish itself as a global mediator. By facilitating dialogue among Kyiv, Moscow, and Washington, Saudi Arabia seeks to shift its image from one associated with repression to one rooted in diplomacy, leveraging its international connections to influence conflict resolution processes.

Zelensky’s impending discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman highlight Saudi Arabia’s ascendance in the diplomatic arena. Historically viewed as an oil and security-centric regional powerhouse, the Kingdom is now positioning itself as a mediator in international disputes, capitalizing on its unique global relations, despite its controversial human rights record.

The Saudi monarchy, under Bin Salman’s leadership, has previously demonstrated its negotiation capabilities, evidenced by its role in prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine. For instance, in September 2022, Saudi Arabia significantly contributed to the release of ten foreign captives from Ukraine, enhancing its reputation as a diplomatic intermediary in crucial international matters.

As the leading oil producer worldwide, Saudi Arabia recognizes that sustained conflicts and their accompanying sanctions can disrupt global energy markets; therefore, it remains vested in promoting global stability. Additionally, Riyadh’s diplomatic initiatives are aligned with broader strategic objectives, extending its mediation efforts to crises in Sudan, Iran, and Syria, thus advocating for dialogue rather than punitive approaches.

The United States views Saudi engagement in diplomacy as vital for furthering the US-brokered Abraham Accords, which aim to normalize relations between Israel and Arab states. Aryeh Lightstone, a former senior adviser, has emphasized the significance of these accords, noting, “Israel has gone from a state isolated in its region to a state that plays a role with some of the most important countries in the region.”

Saudi Arabia’s role in the Middle East makes it a pivotal player in expanding the accords and underlines its willingness to negotiate with adversaries such as Iran, thereby asserting its diplomatic leverage. By maintaining robust ties with Saudi initiatives, the US can effectively advance its broader strategy for the Middle East while ensuring alignment with Western-led peace efforts.

Nevertheless, Saudi Arabia’s increasing diplomatic stature is juxtaposed with its history of human rights violations, notably following the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, which drew worldwide condemnation. Allegations claim that Khashoggi’s assassination was orchestrated by agents acting under the Crown Prince’s orders, a statement Riyadh has refuted.

In summary, President Zelensky’s visit to Saudi Arabia underscores the Kingdom’s ambition to redefine its role on the global stage as a peace mediator amid ongoing international conflicts. This evolving diplomatic persona, while marked by significant achievements, must also contend with Saudi Arabia’s troubling human rights history. As the Kingdom seeks to enhance its influence through mediation, it faces the challenge of reconciling its past actions with its future aspirations as a champion for peace.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr

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