According to the local SPA press agency, the meeting between national security advisers in the city of Jeddah demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s willingness to “contribute to reaching a solution that leads to lasting peace.” Although invitations have been sent to some 30 countries, diplomats familiar with the preparations say Russia is not among them. The SPA agency simply mentions that “several countries” will attend the meeting.
Ukraine’s President Volodimir Zelensky appreciated the broad representation of countries at the talks, including developing nations affected by war-induced increases in food prices. Zelenski considers that this participation is crucial since the food security and well-being of millions of people in Africa, Asia, and other parts of the world depend directly on the speed with which a peace formula is achieved.
Saudi Arabia, a major oil exporter that works closely with Russia on oil matters, has been in contact with both sides and has offered itself as a possible mediator in the conflict, which is approaching a year and a half. China, which has maintained a neutral position in the conflict but has been criticized by the West for not condemning Russia, announced its participation in the Jeddah talks, wanting to play a constructive role in promoting a political solution to the crisis. from Ukraine.
Other countries due to attend include South Africa and India, the latter describing the meeting as in line with its stance that “dialogue and diplomacy are the way forward.” Despite the fact that Saudi Arabia has backed UN Security Council resolutions condemning the invasion of Ukraine, the United States has accused it of “siding with Russia” in the conflict.