Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia’s selection as the venue for key international talks on Ukraine marks a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s diplomatic resurgence, highlighting its transformation from a near-pariah state to a critical global player.
The move underscores the shifting geopolitical landscape and Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in international affairs.
Once burdened by the fallout from the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, the Kingdom and its de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, have largely managed to move past the stigma that once clouded their reputation.
While concerns over human rights persist in international forums, they have not impeded Riyadh’s diplomatic and economic ambitions.
Saudi Arabia has actively repositioned itself on the world stage, investing heavily in entertainment and sports to bolster its soft power.
At the same time, the Kingdom has strategically broadened its diplomatic ties, reducing its dependence on the United States and fostering relationships with global powers such as China and Russia.
Trump’s Return and Saudi Arabia’s Strategic Calculations
The possibility of Donald Trump returning to the White House has been met with optimism in Riyadh.
During his first presidency, Trump made Saudi Arabia his first foreign visit, emphasizing a transactional approach to foreign policy that aligned well with the Kingdom’s leadership.
Should he secure a second term, Trump is expected to rekindle close ties with Saudi Arabia, a stark contrast to the more cautious approach taken by the Biden administration.
A major diplomatic goal for Trump would be brokering a historic peace deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel—a continuation of the Abraham Accords initiated during his first term.
However, the ongoing war in Gaza has complicated any immediate progress on such a deal. Saudi Arabia has outright rejected Trump’s controversial proposal to depopulate Gaza and rebuild it as a resort, instead seeking to develop a more practical peace framework in collaboration with other Arab states.
Riyadh’s alternative approach emphasizes keeping Palestinians in Gaza while facilitating reconstruction efforts, ultimately aiming for a two-state solution.
The stark contrast between Saudi Arabia’s vision and Trump’s proposed policies on Gaza and the occupied West Bank could become a point of contention, influencing the evolving dynamics of U.S.-Saudi relations.
Saudi Arabia’s Global Diplomatic Ambitions
Despite the uncertainties surrounding U.S. policy, Saudi Arabia remains steadfast in its pursuit of a greater role in global diplomacy.
The Kingdom has demonstrated an increasing willingness to act independently, balancing its relationships between Western allies and Eastern powers.
Hosting critical discussions on Ukraine and playing an active role in the Middle East peace process are just two examples of its broader strategy to cement its position as a key mediator in international conflicts.
While the road ahead may involve complex negotiations, what remains evident is Saudi Arabia’s determination to solidify its place as a crucial player in global geopolitics.
As the U.S. political landscape shifts, the Kingdom’s ability to navigate these changes will be pivotal in shaping its future alliances and influence on the world stage.