Saudi Arabia is a prime zone for preventing global conflict!

Once again, all eyes are on Riyadh, following frenetic diplomatic activity aimed at bringing the warring parties together around the same table. This is perhaps to limit the possibility of a third world war in the event of the Ukrainian crisis escalating and turning into a NATO-led conflict against Russia.

Incoming news reports confirm that solutions are looming, perhaps the most important of which is consolidating the truce to open the door to diplomatic channels and contain the conflict from escalating in a region where stability remains fragile and elusive. The role of the United States, which is eager to find a solution to this crisis, is also rapidly advancing efforts, and bringing the views of the US administration and the Ukrainian president closer together, would bring in significant benefits with regard to the upcoming peace negotiations.

It is in everyone’s interest to succeed in the efforts aimed at achieving this reconciliation, as the Kingdom is a neutral mediator, which has avoided taking sides in the crisis, and its leadership has credibility and a personal relationship with the leaders of the countries involved in this conflict. Events have proven that this conflict cannot be resolved in the foreseeable future. It will be an arena of Russian attrition and greater Ukrainian suffering. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a diplomatic resolution as soon as possible.

The escalation of the Ukraine-Russia crisis threatens relations between Russia and the West, particularly with Europe, in several ways. The continuation of the conflict could escalate the confrontation between Russia and NATO, intensifying the arms race and increasing security risks. Imposing further sanctions on Russia could exacerbate the economic crisis in Europe due to its dependence on Russian energy. Some European countries may be more affected by the sanctions, potentially creating rifts within the European Union and NATO.

The tension could push Russia to strengthen its relations with China and other countries to counter Western isolation. This means that continued escalation would further destabilize the region and the world, profoundly impacting the international system. It would also lead to global alignments that could further complicate the situation in that part of the world.

Is a settlement impossible? In international relations, a settlement between two states can be reached through diplomacy and negotiation, where the parties negotiate to reach a solution that satisfies all parties. The tools used also include international mediation through a neutral third party; international arbitration if there is a prior legal agreement; and treaties and agreements that guarantee the implementation of the settlement. Economic and political pressures also play a role in pushing the parties toward a solution. All of these are on the table and among the negotiators, and Riyadh has many cards it can use to guide the course of these negotiations until they succeed.

Let’s not forget that Europe is viewing Donald Trump’s return to the White House with great concern, which is prompting it to consider strengthening its global partnerships, in an independent way, to avoid surprises. France’s attempt to lead the European bloc aims to deal with global issues independently, avoiding further escalation, especially in the Middle East. However, this role faces many complications.

France is also trying to leverage the Saudi role in the region by activating its partnership with Saudi Arabia to enhance its role and effectiveness in the Middle East. What French diplomacy is trying to do in the region is extending cooperation with influential powers to contain crises and prevent them from spiraling out of control. This will not succeed without the Saudi role, which agrees with the French side that the region is in dire need of calm in a significant way.