Saudi Arabia is set to play a key mediating role in upcoming negotiations between Russian and American officials, rather than just providing a venue for the talks, CNN reported on Sunday, citing sources.
According to the report, the meeting will take place on February 18, with Saudi Arabia’s national security advisor leading the kingdom’s delegation. The US will be represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Special Envoy for the Middle East Steven Witkoff. A Ukrainian official told CNN that Kiev would not be involved in the discussions.
The report also underscored Saudi Arabia’s increasing influence in Washington’s foreign policy. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has played a critical role in past diplomatic efforts, including securing the release of American citizen Marc Fogel from a Russian prison. CNN also noted that Trump made Saudi Arabia his first official foreign visit as president in 2017.
Ahead of the talks, Witkoff confirmed he would be heading to Saudi Arabia with the US delegation on February 16, expressing optimism about making tangible progress toward resolving the Ukraine conflict.
On February 12, Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump spoke by phone, discussing a potential ceasefire in Ukraine, bilateral relations, and other pressing issues. They agreed to stay in close contact and arrange a face-to-face meeting in the near future.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Richard Ricciardi/Creative Commons 2.0
Based on materials from TASS