UWC Vice President: Peace talks in Saudi Arabia offer new opportunities for Ukraine

Cooperation between Ukraine and Saudi Arabia during this critical period of achieving a lasting peace in the Russo-Ukrainian war with U.S. mediation is crucial, stated Yevheniy Semenov, UWC Vice President for Middle East and Central Asia, in an interview with Suspilne national broadcaster.

His comments came amid President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Riyadh, where discussions are taking place between Ukrainian delegates and their counterparts in Saudi Arabia and the U.S.

“The countries of this region, particularly Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and others, have significant investment potential. It is now crucial that Ukrainian diplomacy effectively communicates our plans and vision on how these countries can best contribute to Ukraine’s economic recovery,” Semenov said.

He also highlighted that the United Arab Emirates has positioned itself as a mediator by facilitating prisoner exchanges between Ukraine and Russia.

“Saudi Arabia is also seen as a potential mediator, given its experience in facilitating cooperation, including prisoner exchanges between the U.S. and Russia,” Semenov said.

Saudi Arabia has also positioned itself as a neutral mediator in Europe’s bloodiest war since World War II and has and is hosting peace talks between Ukraine and Russia. 

“First and foremost, this strengthens Saudi Arabia’s international standing, as such events emphasize its role as an influential player capable of contributing to the resolution of global conflicts,” Semenov said.

Moreover, it enhances the kingdom’s diplomatic influence, demonstrating its ability to act as a neutral mediator. This, in turn, bolsters Saudi Arabia’s position both in the region and globally.

Starting in 2023, Saudi Arabia pledged $400 million in aid and energy support to Ukraine, including medical supplies and power generators. 

“Of course, negotiations of this caliber open up new economic prospects for Saudi Arabia, as well as opportunities for cooperation with both Ukraine and the United States,” he said.