The imminent US-Russia summit in Riyadh will address major geopolitical issues, including Ukraine, Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and Middle East stability. President Trump’s strategy seeks to leverage negotiations for strategic gains, although concerns arise regarding potential agreements that may undermine Ukraine and European interests. The effectiveness of sanctions on Russia remains uncertain, necessitating negotiations centered on meaningful concessions for lasting peace.
The imminent US-Russia summit in Riyadh is poised to catalyze significant geopolitical shifts. The discussions will encompass not only the ongoing Ukrainian conflict but also major regional issues like Iran’s nuclear ambitions, wherein Russia holds a pivotal role. Additional topics include the stability of the Middle East peace process, especially following the decline of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, and broader concerns regarding economic, security, and trade routes influenced by China’s presence in the Gulf.
A noteworthy aspect of this summit is the absence of key players in the Ukraine situation, such as the European Union and Canada. For US President Donald Trump, known for his negotiation skills, this summit provides a strategic opportunity to secure advantages across diverse geopolitical fronts, potentially without the oversight of other nations he views as secondary in status. Even Ukrainian President Volodyr Zelensky is now being considered as a bargaining chip within Trump’s broader strategy.
Trump’s ambitious plans could transform the landscape of negotiations, where he seeks to leverage Ukraine’s wealth in rare earth minerals and redefine territorial influences in favor of Russia while marginalizing China. He also aims to cultivate collaboration with Putin to revive the Arctic shipping route, which would significantly reduce shipping times for international trade. However, such maneuvers alarm European allies and Ukraine, who fear a US-Russia pact could empower Russia while burdening Europe with Trump’s trade policies.
In previous statements, Trump has boldly claimed, “When I reach the White House, I will end the war in one day,” reflecting his desire for a swift resolution to the conflict. Former National Security Advisor Keith Kellogg outlined a peace initiative that posited halting U.S. military support to Ukraine unless negotiations were initiated. However, Russian reactions were dismissive, asserting, “Kellogg will bring his plan to Moscow; we will take it, and then tell him not to bother, as we do not agree.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin seems uninterested in compromising terms that imply conceding territory or influence, adhering to a maximalist agenda that demands Ukraine’s neutrality, the acknowledgment of Russian claims, and the lifting of sanctions. Indications suggest these proposals are utterly unacceptable to Ukraine and its European supporters. Resistance is also evident among Indo-Pacific nations, who perceive any Russian triumph in Ukraine as a potential impetus for Chinese aggression towards Taiwan.
Trump has demonstrated consistent interest in a deal with Putin but any agreement must be grounded in genuine concessions rather than mere superficial truce. The United States must exert considerable pressure on Russia to return to meaningful negotiations, employing a strategy akin to Trump’s “maximum pressure” approach previously executed against Iran.
While Trump’s sanctions on Iran weakened its military capabilities and economy significantly between 2018 and 2020, analogous measures against Russia may yield different outcomes as Russia is less susceptible to economic collapse. Its economy, bolstered by resource wealth and military adaptability, shows resilience against sanctions, which raises questions about their effectiveness in forcing Russia to engage in negotiations.
Instead of relying solely on economic sanctions, Trump’s ability to negotiate remains critical in achieving a resolution, potentially facilitating Russia’s claim of partial victory under specific conditions, like retaining control over certain territories while Ukraine assumes a neutral stance. A long-term strategy is essential to prevent Russia from unilateral dictation of peace terms, emphasizing the need for strong US commitment to enduring stability in the region.
A favorable resolution in Ukraine would extend its implications far beyond Europe, conveying a robust message of US re-engagement on the global stage, symbolizing renewed strength and leadership during a time of heightened global instability.
The upcoming US-Russia summit in Riyadh is critical for addressing pressing geopolitical issues beyond the Ukraine conflict, including Iran’s nuclear program and Middle East stability. President Trump’s negotiation strategy aims for substantial outcomes; however, a critical balance must be struck to avoid emboldening Russia or compromising US credibility. The success of these talks hinges on America’s ability to exert effective pressure and foster a negotiated settlement that secures enduring peace and strategic advantages for the US and its allies.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
