February 17, 2025
Saudi Arabia has confirmed its involvement as a mediator in potential negotiations between the United States and Russia over the ongoing war in Ukraine, diplomatic sources revealed. The kingdom’s role, facilitated by its growing ties with both Washington and Moscow, is aimed at fostering dialogue that could lead to a resolution of the conflict.
The development comes as the United Kingdom signaled its willingness to send troops to Ukraine to enforce any potential peace deal, should such an agreement be reached. British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps stated that the UK is prepared to play an active role in stabilizing Ukraine post-conflict, including deploying military personnel if necessary.
“We must be ready to support Ukraine in maintaining peace and ensuring that any agreement is upheld,” Shapps said in a statement. However, he emphasized that no deployment would occur without a formal request from Ukraine and coordination with NATO allies.
Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a diplomatic intermediary in recent years, previously hosting prisoner exchange talks between Russia and Ukraine. Its neutral stance in the conflict and strong economic ties with both nations have enabled it to facilitate discussions that Western and Russian officials have otherwise struggled to advance.
While details of the US-Russia talks remain undisclosed, officials indicate that discussions could focus on ceasefire conditions, territorial disputes, and security guarantees for Ukraine. The involvement of Saudi Arabia suggests an attempt to open back-channel negotiations that may not be possible through direct Western-Russian engagement.
The UK’s potential military involvement in Ukraine has sparked concerns about the risk of escalation, with Russia warning against foreign troops entering Ukrainian territory. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated Moscow’s stance that the presence of Western forces would be seen as a direct confrontation.
As the war nears its third year, diplomatic efforts appear to be intensifying, with Saudi Arabia’s mediation offering a possible avenue for de-escalation. However, the success of such efforts remains uncertain, given the entrenched positions of both Ukraine and Russia.
