As global tensions rise, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a central player in international diplomacy. The Kingdom is set to host high-level talks between the United States and Ukraine in an effort to negotiate an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. This diplomatic move underscores Saudi Arabia’s increasing influence on the world stage. Once known primarily for its vast oil wealth and regional stability, Saudi Arabia is now cementing its position as a key mediator in global conflicts.

Saudi Arabia Hosts US-Ukraine Talks in Riyadh

On Monday, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman will welcome Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Riyadh. The meeting will bring together US and Ukrainian officials to discuss a framework for peace. This high-level summit marks the first direct talks between the US and Ukraine following the tense exchange between US President Donald Trump and President Zelenskyy earlier this month.

The Saudi-hosted talks are significant, as they follow successful negotiations earlier this year between US and Russian officials in Riyadh. These discussions, which emphasized cooperation between the two global powers, helped pave the way for future diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Oil Diplomacy: Saudi Arabia’s Strategic Advantage

Saudi Arabia’s growing diplomatic influence can be partially attributed to its role as a leading global oil producer. The Kingdom has long used its vast oil resources to shape global economic policies. In April 2025, Saudi Arabia is expected to take the lead in an OPEC+ agreement aimed at increasing global oil production. This decision comes on the heels of a call from President Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos to lower oil prices as a means of pressuring Russia to end the war.

While critics argue that lowering oil prices may not have the desired impact on Russia’s economy, experts agree that the oil trade is part of a larger strategy by Saudi Arabia, Russia, and the US to influence the global power dynamic. Raffaele Marchetti, a professor of International Relations at LUISS University, noted that using oil prices as a geopolitical tool is too simplistic. Instead, the collaboration between these powers reflects their efforts to leverage oil in reshaping the global balance of power.

Saudi Arabia’s Military Expansion and Regional Influence

Saudi Arabia’s role in global diplomacy is also tied to its increasing military capabilities and regional influence. The Kingdom has long been a dominant force in Middle Eastern security, playing a critical role in post-war recovery efforts in regions such as Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. It has also sought to counter Iran’s growing influence in the region.

Historically, Saudi Arabia faced significant security challenges, particularly after the 9/11 attacks, which were carried out by Osama bin Laden, a Saudi national. In response, the Kingdom significantly increased its defense investments, bolstering both domestic and international security measures.

With ongoing instability in neighboring Iraq and Syria and the stalled Israel-Palestine peace process, Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a key regional power. Its influence now rivals that of other regional giants such as Israel, Iran, and Turkey. Yves Aubin de la Messuzière, France’s former ambassador to Tunisia, highlighted that Saudi Arabia possesses several key power factors, including its economic strength, vast territory, and religious leadership over the Sunni Muslim community.

In line with its military ambitions, Saudi Arabia recently announced an increase in its defense budget, bringing it to nearly 75 billion euros, or 7.1% of its GDP. This makes Saudi Arabia one of the top five countries globally in terms of military expenditures.

Saudi Arabia as a Global Diplomatic Mediator

Saudi Arabia’s ability to maintain strong relationships with various global blocs, such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and BRICS, has further cemented its role as a diplomatic bridge between competing powers. By hosting important negotiations like the US-Ukraine peace talks, the Kingdom has positioned itself as a key mediator in resolving international conflicts.

Former EU ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Luigi Narbone, emphasized that hosting such significant diplomatic talks adds considerable political value. He compared Saudi Arabia’s role to that of Switzerland, which has long been known for hosting important peace negotiations.

By successfully balancing relations between opposing power groups, Saudi Arabia has strengthened its position as a mediator in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and other global issues.

Saudi Arabia’s Growing Diplomatic Influence

As Saudi Arabia continues to play a key role in shaping global diplomacy, its influence in both the Middle East and beyond is undeniable. From leveraging its oil resources to enhancing its military capabilities, the Kingdom is strategically positioning itself as a powerful global player. As international conflicts persist, Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic efforts in facilitating talks, such as those between the US and Ukraine, will likely remain central to efforts to restore peace and stability to the region.

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