President Donald Trump is actively working towards ending the war in Ukraine and has sought the support of Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Crown Prince, along with his diplomats, is expected to play a crucial role in brokering a peace agreement, aiming to elevate Saudi Arabia's international influence.
Trump views Riyadh as a key collaborator in achieving a swift resolution to the conflict. Talks between senior US and Russian officials on Tuesday could pave the way for a potential meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with a summit in Saudi Arabia on the horizon.
Unlike previous US-Russian summits in Europe, holding such a high-stakes meeting in Riyadh would be unprecedented. Saudi Arabia's neutral stance on the conflict, its non-membership in the International Criminal Court, and its diplomatic ties with both Russia and the US make it an attractive location for the summit.
Prince bin Salman's efforts to mediate the Ukraine crisis align with his goal of positioning Saudi Arabia as a significant global player. His previous involvement in brokering detainee swaps between the US and Russia underscores his diplomatic influence.
If the Trump-Putin summit materializes in Riyadh, it would mark a significant diplomatic event, given the history between the two leaders. Trump's friendly relationship with Putin contrasts with his efforts to restore ties with Prince bin Salman, despite disagreements over certain issues like the Gaza Strip.
Trump's approach to Saudi Arabia, including potential investments from the kingdom's sovereign wealth fund, could influence his stance on various matters. The Crown Prince's willingness to make substantial investments in American products has further solidified the relationship between the two leaders.
