Zelenskiy said the framework deal, signed ahead of talks with Mohammed bin Salman, establishes a basis for future contracts, joint technological development and investment between the two countries.

“We are ready to share our expertise and systems with Saudi Arabia and to work together to strengthen the protection of lives,” Zelenskiy said on Telegram, adding that Saudi capabilities were also of interest to Ukraine.

The visit comes as Kyiv reassesses its external support network in the fifth year of its war with Russia. A report by the Washington Post said the United States is weighing redirecting weapons supplies intended for Ukraine to the Middle East, where tensions linked to a conflict with Iran are straining American stockpiles.

Zelenskiy’s outreach to Gulf partners signals an effort to diversify defence cooperation and secure alternative funding and technology flows as geopolitical priorities shift.

Earlier this month, Ukraine sent more than 220 military and security experts to several Middle Eastern countries to advise on countering drone attacks targeting critical infrastructure.

According to video released by Zelenskiy’s office, the delegation included air defence specialists and officials from Ukraine’s SBU security service.

The group conducted workshops for Saudi officials, reported to the Saudi General Staff and is preparing to share operational experience in air defence.

Zelenskiy said Ukraine expects financial compensation and access to technology in exchange for providing such assistance.Drones have become a central feature of the battlefield in Ukraine’s war with Russia, prompting Kyiv to accelerate domestic production and innovation to offset Moscow’s manpower advantage.

Zelenskiy told Reuters this week that, with sufficient financing, Ukraine could produce up to 2,000 drone interceptors per day, underscoring the scale of its defence manufacturing ambitions.

The agreement with Saudi Arabia reflects a convergence of interests as Middle Eastern states seek to strengthen air defence capabilities against drone threats, while Ukraine looks to leverage its battlefield experience for strategic and economic gains.

Saudi Arabia is accelerating efforts to expand women’s participation in artificial intelligence through state-led reforms and private sector initiatives tied to Vision 2030, as officials and industry leaders point to rapid gains in training, workforce inclusion and investment in emerging technologies.

Government-backed programs and institutional reforms have supported a sharp rise in female participation in technical education and the labor market, with policymakers framing gender inclusion as central to economic diversification.

According to Areeb Alowisheq, vice president of AI research at Humain, the Kingdom has achieved the highest global female-to-male ratio in AI training, reflecting what she described as a long-term policy focus on education and workforce development.

Alowisheq said the current expansion builds on decades of public investment in education, including overseas scholarship programs. Since 2005, the King Abdullah Scholarship Program has funded more than 250,000 Saudi citizens to study abroad, contributing to a skilled workforce across science and engineering disciplines.

Domestic institutions have also played a central role. Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, described as the world’s largest women’s university, has produced graduates in science, technology, engineering and medicine for decades.

By 2017, female university graduates in Saudi Arabia outnumbered male graduates, according to Alowisheq.She linked these educational gains to structural reforms introduced under Vision 2030, launched in 2016 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The program set a target to increase women’s workforce participation from 22 percent to 30 percent, alongside regulatory changes aimed at reducing barriers to employment.

These measures included lifting the ban on women driving in 2017, introducing workplace anti-harassment laws and amending the Civil Status Law to allow women to manage businesses, travel independently and act as heads of households.

Female labor force participation exceeded 36 percent by 2025, surpassing the initial target ahead of schedule, according to data cited by Alowisheq.

Saudi authorities have paired these reforms with targeted investment in artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure. Government spending on emerging technologies rose by more than 56 percent in 2024, while AI-focused companies secured $9.1 billion in funding, reflecting increased activity across the sector.

The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority has played a central role in scaling training programs and institutional capacity. In collaboration with Google Cloud, it launched the Elevate Initiative in 2022, a five-year program aimed at training more than 25,000 women in emerging markets in artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Saudi Arabia has also expanded its international engagement in the field. It became the first Arab country to join the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence and hosts the UNESCO-backed International Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics in Riyadh, positioning itself within global governance frameworks for emerging technologies.

Training volumes have increased sharply. According to the 2025 AI Index published by Stanford University, more than 666,000 women in Saudi Arabia received training in data and artificial intelligence within a single year. The report ranked the Kingdom first globally in women’s AI empowerment based on participation metrics.

Alowisheq said the scale of training is critical to building an ecosystem capable of supporting adoption and innovation. She described the expansion as creating a base of skilled users and professionals able to integrate artificial intelligence into economic activity

.Alowisheq, who has more than two decades of experience in the sector, said her own career path reflects changes in access and opportunity over time. After completing undergraduate studies in computer applications at King Saud University and pursuing graduate work focused on networking and distributed systems, she said early gaps in AI education motivated her to pursue the field independently.

She now leads initiatives focused on developing Arabic-language AI models, part of broader efforts to localize technology and expand regional capabilities. Within her organization, she said women and men work under equal expectations, reflecting changes in workplace participation following regulatory reforms.

Saudi Arabia’s push to expand women’s participation in artificial intelligence also addresses a broader global imbalance. Data from UNESCO and UN Women indicate that women account for about 22 percent of professional roles in the sector worldwide.Officials and industry participants have framed Saudi Arabia’s approach as a response to both domestic economic priorities and international benchmarks on gender inclusion.

By linking workforce reforms with sector-specific investment, policymakers aim to align labor market participation with growth in high-technology industries.

Alowisheq said the integration of women into the AI workforce reflects a convergence of economic and social policy objectives. She noted that expanding access to education, removing structural barriers and scaling training programs have contributed to measurable increases in participation across both public and private sectors.

The Kingdom’s strategy combines regulatory reform, education investment and international collaboration, with implementation led by government institutions and supported by private sector partnerships.

Officials have emphasized that workforce development remains central to sustaining growth in artificial intelligence and related industries.

The meeting took place in a cordial and welcoming atmosphere, highlighting ongoing dialogue and exchanges between Saudi Arabia and prominent global leaders with extensive experience in diplomacy and international affairs.

During the meeting, the Crown Prince and Clinton engaged in a friendly conversation that touched on a range of topics of mutual interest, underscoring the importance of open communication and constructive engagement in today’s complex global environment.

The visit comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is playing an increasingly active role on the international stage, strengthening ties with global partners while advancing its Vision 2030 agenda focused on economic diversification, social reform and regional stability.

Saudi Arabia has in recent years positioned itself as a key diplomatic hub, hosting high-level meetings and dialogues with current and former leaders, policymakers and international stakeholders from across the world.

Clinton’s meeting with the Crown Prince reflects continued interest among global political figures in engaging with the Kingdom as it undergoes significant transformation across economic, social and political spheres.

As a former top US diplomat, Clinton has been involved in shaping international policy on issues ranging from global security to economic development, making her visit notable in the context of broader international discussions.

The meeting also highlights the Kingdom’s emphasis on maintaining channels of dialogue with figures from across the political spectrum, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a platform for diplomatic engagement and exchange of perspectives.

Over the past decade, relations between Saudi Arabia and the United States have evolved amid shifting geopolitical dynamics, with both sides emphasizing cooperation on regional security, economic partnerships and global stability.

Saudi leadership has consistently underscored the importance of balanced international relations, seeking to strengthen partnerships while safeguarding national interests and promoting peace and development in the region.

The Crown Prince’s engagement with international leaders aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader diplomatic approach, which includes active participation in global forums, mediation efforts and international initiatives aimed at fostering dialogue and cooperation.

Riyadh has increasingly hosted high-profile visits, conferences and summits, reinforcing its position as a central meeting point for discussions on global challenges such as energy security, economic growth, climate change and regional stability.

Clinton’s presence in Riyadh adds to a series of visits by former and current global leaders, reflecting continued international attention on Saudi Arabia’s evolving role in global affairs.

Observers note that such meetings contribute to mutual understanding and allow for the exchange of insights on international trends, policy challenges and opportunities for cooperation.

The Crown Prince has frequently emphasized Saudi Arabia’s openness to dialogue and collaboration with partners around the world, as part of the Kingdom’s efforts to build constructive relationships based on mutual respect and shared interests.

Friendly and informal exchanges during such meetings often serve as a foundation for broader understanding, even when participants no longer hold official government positions.

Saudi Arabia’s leadership continues to engage with influential global voices to share perspectives on the Kingdom’s reforms, regional developments and international priorities.

The meeting at Al-Yamamah Palace reflects the Kingdom’s long-standing tradition of diplomatic hospitality and its commitment to engaging with international figures in a respectful and open manner.

As Saudi Arabia continues to advance its national transformation agenda, interactions with global leaders and former policymakers remain an important element of its diplomatic outreach and international engagement strategy.

A Clear-Edged Breakdown of Iran’s Strategic Shift Toward Saudi Arabia

According to political expert Mario Nawfal, Iran has taken a step it previously insisted it would never consider: requesting Saudi Arabia’s assistance in reopening nuclear talks with the United States. This outreach reflects a significant shift in Tehran’s approach and signals a moment shaped less by diplomatic confidence and more by mounting pressure.

A letter from President Masoud Pezeshkian was delivered to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman shortly before the Saudi leader’s visit to the White House. The communication notably departed from Iran’s traditional revolutionary tone. Instead of confrontational rhetoric, it emphasised openness to dialogue and explicitly appealed for support in re-engaging with Washington.

The fact that Tehran is directing such a request to Riyadh—its longstanding regional rival—indicates that circumstances are tightening around Iran’s strategic environment.

Two core factors underpin this sudden shift in posture.

The first is fear. Israeli strikes in June targeted Iranian nuclear sites and, more importantly, undermined Iran’s sense of invulnerability. Tehran now perceives the possibility of further action if diplomatic efforts break down.

The second factor is survival. Iran’s economic situation continues to deteriorate, with the rial weakening sharply and energy shortages disrupting daily life. Public frustration is intensifying as these pressures accumulate.

Alongside these domestic concerns, Iran’s broader regional influence is eroding. Hezbollah is weakened, Hamas has been significantly damaged, and the Syrian government under Bashar al-Assad has fallen. Collectively, these developments are rapidly reducing Tehran’s regional leverage.

In contrast, Saudi Arabia possesses advantages Tehran currently lacks: direct influence in Washington, a personal channel to former President Donald Trump, and regional authority grounded in economic strength, energy resources, and political stability. While Oman and Qatar are capable of transmitting messages, Saudi Arabia has the capacity to shape outcomes.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has indicated an openness to facilitating diplomatic progress—not as an act of benevolence, but because a U.S.–Iran conflict would generate serious consequences across the Gulf region.

Both Iran and the United States publicly endorse diplomacy, yet neither is willing to accommodate the other’s demands. Iran’s clerical establishment maintains that negotiations cannot occur “under threat.” However, the current threats surrounding Tehran are also the primary drivers pushing it toward engagement.

The announcement, made in the Oval Office, reflects the Kingdom’s growing global economic influence and its intention to strengthen long-term partnerships that support innovation, job creation and sustainable growth.

The crown prince emphasized that the investment increase builds on the already pledged $600 billion, highlighting the strong foundation on which both countries continue to expand their collaboration.

He described the new commitment as “real investment and real opportunity,” signaling a vision that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s pursuit of diversified global economic engagement under Vision 2030.

President Trump welcomed the announcement enthusiastically, praising the Kingdom as a “very important partner” and reaffirming the United States’ readiness to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors.

He further revealed that the US is prepared to sell F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, placing the Kingdom on par with other key American allies in defense partnerships and strategic military capabilities.

Trump stated that both Saudi Arabia and Israel should have access to top-tier security technology, emphasizing that continued collaboration strengthens regional stability and supports America’s broader goals in the Middle East.

The defense announcement marks a significant moment in bilateral relations, advancing mutual security interests and reinforcing trust between the two nations.

During the meeting, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also highlighted the central focus of his US visit: advancing large-scale investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure and emerging technologies.

He explained that the Kingdom views AI as a cornerstone of its Vision 2030 strategy, enabling economic diversification, technological leadership and future-ready industries that support global progress.

These AI initiatives include plans to accelerate innovation hubs, data centers, advanced robotics, cloud systems and next-generation digital ecosystems that align closely with American strengths in technology and research.

The crown prince stated that Saudi Arabia seeks long-term collaborations with US companies, universities and institutions to build powerful AI networks that benefit both countries and drive international competitiveness.

The meeting also covered regional issues, with the crown prince reaffirming the Kingdom’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.

He reiterated Saudi Arabia’s readiness to establish relations with Israel once a clear and just roadmap toward a two-state solution is secured for the Palestinian people.

He noted that the Kingdom wants to be part of the Abraham Accords while ensuring fairness, coexistence and lasting peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.

Saudi Arabia’s position reflects its longstanding diplomatic principles and its efforts to contribute to a secure, prosperous region grounded in dialogue and shared understanding.

President Trump stated that a civilian nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia is “within reach,” adding that he had already reached a new defense agreement with the Kingdom that would further strengthen cooperation.

These developments underscore the trust and alignment between the two countries on energy security, sustainable development and forward-looking technological partnerships.

When asked how the visit would strengthen ties between Riyadh and Washington, the crown prince described the Saudi-US partnership as irreplaceable and fundamental to political, economic, security and military progress on both sides.

He reaffirmed that the opportunities ahead are vast and that cooperation will only deepen over the coming decades, marking what he called “a huge new chapter” for both nations.

The crown prince was greeted with full ceremonial honors upon his arrival at the White House earlier in the day, including a symbolic US fighter jet flyover that celebrated his presence and acknowledged the importance of the visit.

The warm reception signaled the United States’ commitment to elevating its partnership with Saudi Arabia as both countries look toward a future shaped by innovation, investment and shared strategic priorities.

The Crown Prince stressed the importance of ending the humanitarian suffering of Palestinians, ensuring a complete Israeli withdrawal, and advancing peace efforts in line with the two-state solution.

The cabinet reaffirmed the Kingdom’s support for ongoing regional and international initiatives aimed at strengthening global security and fostering sustainable peace.

Alongside international diplomacy, the council reviewed domestic initiatives focused on enhancing public services, improving productivity, and supporting sustainable growth.

Officials highlighted progress on government programs designed to deliver innovative solutions and benefit citizens across the Kingdom.

A key highlight was the launch of the King Salman Gate Project in Makkah, a transformative infrastructure initiative aimed at improving the experience for visitors to the Grand Mosque.

The project represents the Kingdom’s commitment to combining modern development with cultural and spiritual excellence.

Housing and real estate development were also central to the discussions. The cabinet reviewed strategies to expand housing supply, achieve market balance, and provide citizens with diverse housing options. These measures aim to attract investors, support urban growth, and enhance economic stability.

The council also celebrated Saudi Arabia’s recent achievements in education, rural development, and transport, reflecting the Kingdom’s dedication to innovation and global best practices.

The Saudi International Railway Exhibition and Conference further demonstrated this commitment, bringing together participants from over 20 countries and facilitating more than 50 agreements supporting the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services.

The Crown Prince emphasized that these initiatives reflect a balanced approach, combining leadership in global humanitarian issues with tangible progress in national development.

By addressing urgent needs abroad and advancing infrastructure and housing at home, Saudi Arabia continues to enhance quality of life for citizens while reinforcing its international influence.

Officials underscored that these efforts align with Vision 2030, promoting sustainable development, economic diversification, and international collaboration.

By integrating domestic growth with diplomatic engagement, the Kingdom aims to maintain its role as a proactive and responsible global actor, driving progress on multiple fronts.

Saudi Arabia’s achievements in diplomacy, infrastructure, and innovation demonstrate its commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity.

The government’s focus on both humanitarian leadership and domestic development exemplifies a forward-looking strategy that positions the Kingdom as a regional and international leader in governance, innovation, and social progress.

The reforms are part of the broader Vision 2030 initiative that is rapidly modernizing the Kingdom—socially, economically, and culturally.

A recent Wall Street Journal review of veteran journalist Karen Elliott House’s latest book, “The Man Who Would Be King,” offers a sweeping view of Saudi Arabia’s transformation under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The book profiles the man universally known as MBS, depicting him as a transformative force reshaping the Kingdom’s destiny and influencing the emerging global order.

“MBS… will play a critical and perhaps decisive role in shaping the new regional order,” the book asserts—echoing a growing consensus among international analysts and regional observers alike.

A Kingdom Reimagined

At the heart of MBS’s long-term vision lies NEOM, a $500 billion smart city project meant to position Saudi Arabia at the cutting edge of technological and scientific advancement. “MBS hopes that his new city—known as NEOM—will make Saudi Arabia a dominant force in technological innovation,” House writes.

The reforms are part of the broader Vision 2030 initiative that is rapidly modernizing the Kingdom—socially, economically, and culturally. House highlights how “a younger generation is now free to live something much closer to what their Western peers would recognize as a normal life,” referring to greater social freedoms, entertainment, and job market access for youth and women.

In what the book describes as a high-stakes economic shift, MBS is “placing many multibillion-dollar chips on different alternatives to oil… some will hit big.” From investing in green energy and AI to developing tourism, the Crown Prince is crafting new revenue streams for a nation long reliant on fossil fuels.

One such alternative is tourism—once a niche, now a national priority. “New sources of revenue, like tourism, will have to supplement oil wealth,” the book points out. Major initiatives such as AlUla, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Project are helping reposition the Kingdom as a global cultural and leisure destination.

A Leadership Redefined

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has also redefined the public face of Saudi leadership. “No Saudi ruler before him would be seen riding a dune buggy at a tourist attraction or posing for selfies at a restaurant,” House notes—an observation that underscores MBS’s populist appeal and generational relatability.

Yet this modern image is coupled with firm authority. “The MBS she describes is a formidable character bent on imposing his will,” writes House, underlining the intensity with which the Crown Prince is driving reforms, despite resistance from entrenched interests.

The scale of Saudi Arabia’s transformation is increasingly global in impact. With the Public Investment Fund (PIF) investing in sectors across the world—from tech and AI to entertainment and infrastructure—the Kingdom’s strategic decisions are shaping not just its own future, but also that of international markets and geopolitics.

“The decisions Saudi Arabia makes about investing its massive resources will help shape the global future,” House writes.

Saudi Voices Echo the Sentiment

Reacting to the review, Mohammed Alhamed, Founder and President of Saudi Elite, stated on X (formerly Twitter): “WSJ highlights MBS’s rising global impact through Karen Elliott House’s new book: ‘The Man Who Would Be King.’”

Alhamed added, “The MBS she describes is a leader who’s disrupting norms, reshaping the Kingdom, and steering the Middle East toward a modern and competitive future.”

His remarks reflect a broader sentiment within Saudi Arabia’s emerging elite class, who view the Crown Prince’s assertive agenda as a necessary leap toward relevance and resilience in a fast-changing world.

As the international community watches closely, MBS’s bold reforms continue to challenge perceptions of the Kingdom—and chart an ambitious course toward a post-oil, globally integrated Saudi Arabia.

During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ongoing visit to Saudi Arabia, a high-level meeting took place between PM Modi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Crown Prince conveyed his heartfelt condolences and unwavering support to India in the aftermath of the brutal attack.

“As I said, the recent terror attacks in Kashmir were discussed and His Royal Highness Crown Prince conveyed his condolences. The leaders strongly condemned this terror attack,” said Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, during a media briefing in Jeddah.

In addition to expressing sympathy, the Crown Prince offered any necessary assistance to India, underscoring the strengthening security cooperation between the two countries as they jointly confront the menace of terrorism.

At the same time, the United Arab Emirates issued a firm statement condemning the heinous attack that targeted tourists in Pahalgam. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) declared its strong rejection of all forms of violence and terrorism, emphasizing that such acts undermine security and stability, violating international law.

The Ministry expressed its sincere condolences and sympathy to the government and people of India, and to the families of the victims affected by this senseless violence. It also wished a swift recovery to those injured in the attack.

UAE’s Ambassador to India, Abdulnasser Alshaali posted, “My most sincere condolences to the victims of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. My thoughts are with the people of India. I pray for the swift and full recovery of the injured.”

The joint condemnation by Saudi Arabia and the UAE highlights the growing consensus among Gulf nations against Pakistan-backed terrorism and their firm stance in support of India’s sovereignty and security. These developments come amid broader efforts to enhance regional cooperation in counterterrorism, investment, and diplomatic ties.

PM Modi’s visit to Saudi Arabia, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties, comes at a critical time when collaboration against terrorism has become a top priority for both nations.

In a ceremonious welcome, PM Modi was greeted with a 21-gun salute upon arrival. As his plane entered Saudi airspace, it was escorted by F15 fighter jets in a special gesture of respect and camaraderie. At the airport, the Prime Minister interacted warmly with Saudi officials and dignitaries.

A heartwarming cultural moment took place when Saudi singer Hashim Abbas passionately performed the Indian patriotic song ‘Ae Watan’ in PM Modi’s honor. “When I started singing, my friends told me that one day I would sing in front of PM Modi. I didn’t believe them… I love India. It is a great country led by the great leader, PM Narendra Modi,” Abbas told PTI.

Adding to the celebratory spirit, hundreds of members of the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia gathered to welcome the Prime Minister. They greeted him with chants of “Modi, Modi” and showcased traditional cultural performances. Sharing photos from the event on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and said the visit would “strengthen the friendship between India and Saudi Arabia.”

The Prime Minister is set to co-chair the second meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council alongside Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Discussions will focus on enhancing cooperation in key sectors including defence, trade, investment, energy, and people-to-people ties.

Before departing from India, PM Modi emphasized the importance of India’s evolving relationship with Saudi Arabia. “India deeply values its long and historic ties with Saudi Arabia that have acquired strategic depth and momentum in recent years,” he said. “We have shared interest and commitment to promote regional peace, prosperity, security and stability.”

In an interview with Arab News ahead of the visit, PM Modi described Saudi Arabia as “one of India’s most valued partners — a maritime neighbour, a trusted friend and a strategic ally.”

This high-profile visit follows King Salman’s attendance at the G20 Summit in New Delhi last September, during which he co-chaired the first meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council. Officials from both countries hope this visit will further solidify bilateral ties and explore new avenues for cooperation.

For Prince Mohammed, this was a diplomatic victory, reinforcing his efforts to transform his oil-rich nation from its conservative past into a formidable soft-power player.

Saudi Arabia’s hosting of high-level talks involving American, Russian, and Ukrainian officials underscores its ambition to position itself as a key global mediator. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman personally welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Jeddah, just before crucial discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian representatives.

This meeting followed a recent episode where former U.S. President Donald Trump rebuked Zelensky for being “ungrateful” during an encounter at the White House.

Saudi Arabia had already facilitated discussions between top U.S. and Russian officials, marking the first direct engagement between Washington and Moscow since the onset of the Ukraine war. The selection of Saudi Arabia as the host was acknowledged by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as a mutually agreeable venue for both parties.

For Prince Mohammed, this was a diplomatic victory, reinforcing his efforts to transform his oil-rich nation from its conservative past into a formidable soft-power player.

The kingdom’s diplomatic balancing act extends beyond the Ukraine war. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has shifted towards a policy of neutrality in global conflicts. This pivot aligns with its broader economic agenda—Vision 2030—which aims to reduce its reliance on oil by attracting foreign investment.

As part of this strategy, Prince Mohammed has de-escalated tensions in Yemen, re-engaged with Iran, and maintained strong ties with both China and Russia, all while preserving Saudi Arabia’s historically close relationship with Western powers.

Balancing Relationships with Putin and Trump

Saudi Arabia’s global image is no longer confined to its oil wealth. The kingdom has hosted high-profile boxing matches, electronic music festivals, and humanitarian summits. It has also sought to bolster its reputation as a peace broker by organizing aid conferences and diplomatic meetings.

In August 2023, Saudi Arabia hosted a two-day peace summit on Ukraine with representatives from over 40 nations, though Russia was absent. Earlier in the year, Riyadh pledged $400 million in aid to Ukraine.

Prince Mohammed’s increasing diplomatic prominence stems in part from his close ties with Trump. Trump’s decision to make Saudi Arabia his first international visit as president in 2017 was a significant departure from tradition.

Even after losing the 2020 election, Trump’s business connections with Saudi Arabia remained intact, with Saudi investments worth $2 billion flowing into a firm managed by his son-in-law Jared Kushner and plans to establish Trump-branded properties in the kingdom.

On Friday, Trump announced his intention to revisit Saudi Arabia, citing the kingdom’s pledge to invest $1 trillion in U.S. companies over four years. “This time, they’ve gotten richer and we’ve all gotten older”, Trump remarked, reinforcing his administration’s transactional approach to diplomacy.

Simultaneously, Prince Mohammed has cultivated a strong rapport with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Unlike Western leaders who distanced themselves after the Khashoggi incident, Putin maintained ties with the Saudi crown prince. Even after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Prince Mohammed resisted U.S. pressure to distance himself from Moscow, continuing to collaborate with Russia on global oil supply management.

In 2023, Putin visited Saudi Arabia, reinforcing Riyadh’s role in the BRICS economic bloc, which seeks to counterbalance U.S. financial dominance.

Saudi Arabia’s ability to hedge its relationships in an increasingly polarized global landscape has proven beneficial. The kingdom played a critical role in securing the release of American teacher Mark Fogel from Russian custody and has successfully mediated multiple prisoner exchanges between Ukraine and Russia.

However, the recent U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia notably excluded Ukraine. In contrast, the upcoming meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ukrainian officials will ensure Kyiv’s involvement in ongoing negotiations.

Saudi Arabia’s Eyes on Gaza

Beyond Ukraine, Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic positioning could serve its broader regional objectives. Trump’s controversial proposal to relocate Gaza’s population and redevelop the territory into a luxury coastal destination has been met with widespread Arab opposition. In response, regional leaders convened in Cairo to endorse a $53 billion reconstruction plan aimed at preserving Palestinian residency in Gaza.

By playing a key role in ending the Ukraine war, Saudi Arabia stands to gain favor in Washington over Gaza.

Hasan Alhasan, a senior fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in Bahrain, suggests that the kingdom could leverage this goodwill to bridge the gap between the U.S. and Arab positions on Gaza.

With Trump potentially in office, Prince Mohammed may attempt to use their close ties to influence American policy in the Middle East.

Nonetheless, Saudi Arabia faces challenges in balancing its strategic interests. Trump has long advocated for Saudi-Israel normalization, but the kingdom remains committed to defending Palestinian statehood.

Saudi officials have consistently emphasized that a lasting peace must guarantee Palestinian rights in accordance with international resolutions. In a recent statement, the kingdom reiterated this stance, underscoring its reluctance to accept Trump’s Gaza relocation plan.

Prince Mohammed’s ability to sustain positive relations with Trump, Putin, and other global leaders may determine the success of his ambitions to position Saudi Arabia as a decisive mediator in international conflicts.