Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Saudi Arabia for the 32nd Arab League summit marked a significant milestone in Ukrainian-Arab relations. Seeking support for his country in the face of Russia’s invasion, Zelensky emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation while expressing his readiness to elevate bilateral ties with Saudi Arabia. The visit showcased Ukraine’s determination to protect its people and highlighted the Kingdom’s role in the region’s affairs.
President Zelensky took to Twitter to outline his objectives for the visit, stating his intention to enhance bilateral relations between Ukraine and Saudi Arabia, as well as strengthen Ukraine’s ties with the Arab world. He highlighted critical issues such as the plight of political prisoners in Crimea and temporarily occupied territories, the repatriation of Ukrainian citizens, the pursuit of a “Peace Formula,” and energy cooperation. Zelensky acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s significant role in the region and expressed a desire to take the cooperation between the two nations to a new level.
During the summit, President Zelensky delivered a passionate address, donning a military-inspired outfit symbolizing Ukraine’s determination to protect its people. He called for unity among Arab nations and Ukraine in liberating individuals from Russian prisons. Zelensky vehemently emphasized that Ukraine did not choose war but is compelled to continue fighting against the invasion. He made it clear that Ukraine will not succumb to any foreign country or colonizers, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its people.
President Zelensky’s visit included a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who had previously expressed willingness to mediate in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. During their discussions, Zelensky appreciated Saudi Arabia’s support and reiterated his commitment to furthering cooperation between the two countries. The Ukrainian leader commended the Kingdom’s influential role in regional affairs and expressed optimism about elevating bilateral ties.
The Ukrainian president received a warm welcome from the Kingdom, with the Saudi Foreign Ministry extending its greetings on Twitter. The visit was hailed as a milestone in Ukrainian-Arab relations, as Ukraine’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Anatolii Petrenko, highlighted the growing ties between the Global South and Ukraine. He emphasized the joint efforts to address critical global and regional issues, underscoring the significance of President Zelensky’s visit in strengthening these relationships.
President Volodymyr Zelensky’s historic visit to Saudi Arabia served as a platform for Ukraine to seek support in its ongoing conflict with Russia. By emphasizing unity, cooperation, and the importance of protecting the Ukrainian people, Zelensky aimed to garner international assistance and showcase Ukraine’s commitment to its citizens. The visit also highlighted the potential for enhanced cooperation between Ukraine and Saudi Arabia, with Zelensky expressing readiness to take bilateral relations to a new level. The diplomatic engagement between the two nations marked a positive step forward in strengthening Ukrainian-Arab ties and addressing critical regional challenges.
