Politics
Putin: I don't want war... I'm ready to negotiate... and the American response doesn't address our concerns
Hours after withdrawing Russian troops from the border with Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that he did not want war, expressing his readiness
Hours after withdrawing Russian troops from the border with Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that he does not want war, expressing his country's readiness to negotiate with the West on contentious issues. Speaking at a press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday, Putin said that the responses from the United States and NATO do not address Russia's security concerns. He emphasized that he does not want a war triggered by Ukraine, following weeks of heightened tensions fueled by a large-scale deployment of Russian forces. Putin stated, "Do we want war or not? Absolutely not. That is why we have put forward our proposals for a negotiation process." He clarified that "Article 10 of the NATO treaty does not require the admission of new members," noting that his country is prepared to negotiate with the West on contentious issues, but will not accept "fragmentation of the principle of security." He added that Putin and the German Chancellor have a pragmatic approach to bilateral relations with Russia, noting that Western responses to their proposals do not meet their demands regarding security guarantees for Russia. He added: "We emphasized the need to avoid strengthening the security of some countries at the expense of others, and we addressed the situation in Ukraine. There is no doubt that Kyiv is evading its commitments, and we do not want war, which is why we proposed the security guarantees initiative." He pointed out that he will do everything possible to resolve the conflict in Donbas based on the Minsk agreements, but what is currently happening in Donbas is considered genocide. He also considered the military deterrence against his country by the West a threat to its security. The Russian President pledged that his country would continue to supply gas to Europe via Ukraine even after 2024. Putin continued, saying: "Russia will act according to its plans and developments on the ground. This does not depend on us alone, and the overwhelming majority of our citizens support and sympathize with the people of Donbas." He stressed, "We want to resolve the issue of Ukraine's accession to NATO today, not tomorrow.".
For his part, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stressed the need to do everything possible to secure energy supplies, warning of the dangers of aggression against Ukraine, which he said would have dire consequences and that diplomatic solutions to the crisis were essential. Scholz explained that European security could only be built in partnership with Russia, expressing his readiness to discuss common security with Russia, the European Union, and NATO. He considered Russia's withdrawal of some of its forces from the border with Ukraine a positive sign and noted that the Minsk process was crucial for the success of negotiations, emphasizing that a military scenario in Ukraine would have serious consequences and that a diplomatic solution was imperative.
The Russian president had previously stressed that cooperation with Germany was a priority and that his country was a reliable energy supplier, describing Germany as a key partner. He explained at the start of talks with the German chancellor that they would devote a large part of their time to issues related to the situation in Europe and security, and to the ongoing talks on this issue, especially with regard to Ukraine.
Scholz visited the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Monday as part of diplomatic efforts to defuse the serious threat of a possible Russian invasion of Ukraine, which could lead to the worst crisis in Europe since the Cold War.
The Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which runs from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea bypassing Ukraine, was completed last September, but the German Network Agency suspended the project's approval process last November, saying it needed to verify its compliance with German law before approving it. The project is expected to be approved no later than the end of the first half of 2022, according to international media.
Politics
The Crown Prince receives a message from the President of the Maldives to strengthen relations
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received a written message from the President of the Maldives concerning bilateral relations, which was received by the Deputy Foreign Minister during his meeting with the Maldivian Ambassador in Riyadh.
His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, received a written message from His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Moez, President of the Republic of Maldives, concerning ways to strengthen the strong bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries, and discussing prospects for joint cooperation in various fields.
The message was received on behalf of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince by His Excellency the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Engineer Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji, during his reception today at the Ministry’s headquarters in Riyadh of the Ambassador of the Republic of Maldives to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mr. Ahmed Sarir.
During the reception, the distinguished bilateral relations between the Kingdom and the Maldives were reviewed, and ways to develop them in a manner that serves the interests of the two brotherly peoples were discussed, in addition to discussing a number of topics of common interest, and exchanging views on regional and international developments.
The depth of Saudi-Maldivian relations
This message comes within the framework of ongoing communication between the leaderships of the two countries, as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Maldives share close historical and fraternal relations based on commonalities in Islamic identity and mutual cooperation. The Kingdom is a strategic partner of the Maldives in numerous development projects. Over the past decades, the Saudi Fund for Development has contributed to financing many vital infrastructure projects in the Maldives, including airport development, housing projects, and the health sector, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to supporting the stability and prosperity of its sister nations.
Prospects for future cooperation
This diplomatic engagement is particularly important in light of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which seeks to expand international partnerships and enhance economic and investment cooperation. Given the Maldives' status as a global tourist destination and the Kingdom's focus on developing the tourism sector as a cornerstone of economic diversification, promising opportunities exist for the exchange of expertise and investments between the two countries. Furthermore, both nations play significant roles within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, making political coordination between them vital for addressing the challenges facing the Muslim world.
The reception of the Maldivian ambassador by Engineer Waleed Al-Khuraiji confirms the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ keenness to activate diplomatic communication channels and follow up on the outcomes of bilateral cooperation, in order to ensure the realization of the leadership’s aspirations in both countries towards greater integration and growth.
Politics
The leadership offers condolences to the King of Jordan on the death of Ahmed Obeidat | Details of the telegram
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince sent two telegrams of condolence to the King of Jordan on the death of former Prime Minister Ahmed Obeidat, stressing the depth of fraternal relations and expressing their condolences to the Jordanian people.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, sent two cables of condolence and sympathy to His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, on the death of the former Jordanian Prime Minister, Ahmed Obeidat, who passed away after a career full of giving in service to his country.
Details of the royal telegram
In their telegrams, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince expressed their deepest condolences and sincere sympathy to His Majesty the King of Jordan, the family of the deceased, and the brotherly Jordanian people. The wise leadership prayed to God Almighty to bestow His mercy and forgiveness upon the deceased, grant him a place in Paradise, and grant his family patience and solace. They also prayed that God protect the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, its leadership, and its people from all harm and evil, affirming the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's unwavering support for Jordan in all circumstances.
Ahmed Obeidat: A remarkable political and security career
The late Ahmed Obeidat, who passed away last Tuesday, was one of Jordan's most prominent statesmen of recent decades. He held sensitive and pivotal positions in the history of the Kingdom, serving as Prime Minister in the 1980s, and prior to that as Director of the General Intelligence Directorate and Minister of the Interior. Obeidat was known for his political and security acumen, and played a key role in drafting the Jordanian National Charter. He was also an active member of the Senate for several terms, making him a widely respected figure in political and social circles.
Funeral and mourning ceremonies
The funeral procession for the deceased took place in his hometown of Haritha, in the Irbid Governorate of northern Jordan, amidst a large official and public attendance reflecting the high esteem in which he was held. Mourners flocked from across Jordan to offer their condolences, recalling the deceased's virtues and patriotic stances.
The depth of Saudi-Jordanian relations
The condolences offered by the Saudi leadership reaffirm the deep-rooted fraternal and historical ties that bind the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Relations between the two brotherly nations are characterized by continuous coordination and ongoing consultation on all issues, in addition to the strong social and familial bonds that unite their peoples, making their grief a shared sorrow in such tragic events.
Politics
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz departs Riyadh after an official visit
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz departs Riyadh after an official visit to the Kingdom. He was seen off by the Deputy Governor of Riyadh and the Minister of Finance, in a move to strengthen Saudi-German relations.
The Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Friedrich Merz, and his accompanying high-level delegation left the Saudi capital, Riyadh, today (Thursday), after concluding an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, during which he held important talks aimed at strengthening the bonds of joint cooperation between the two friendly countries.
Official farewell ceremony at King Khalid International Airport
A formal farewell ceremony was held for the German Chancellor at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. Among those bidding him farewell were His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region, and His Highness Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, Mayor of Riyadh. Also present were the Minister of Finance, Mr. Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan (the accompanying minister), the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Germany, Mr. Fahd Al-Hathal, the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to the Kingdom, Mr. Michael Kindsgrapp, the Acting Director of Riyadh Region Police, Major General Mansour bin Nasser Al-Otaibi, and the Deputy Chief of Royal Protocol, Mr. Fahd Al-Sahil.
Dimensions of the visit and the depth of Saudi-German relations
Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to Riyadh comes at a crucial time, reflecting the depth of the historical and strategic relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Federal Republic of Germany. These relations, spanning decades, have been characterized by mutual respect and constructive cooperation across various fields. Such reciprocal visits between the two countries' leaders are a cornerstone for coordinating positions on global and regional issues, particularly in light of the geopolitical challenges facing the world, thus underscoring the role of Riyadh and Berlin as influential capitals in international decision-making.
Economic partnership and the prospects of Vision 2030
This visit holds significant economic importance, as Germany is a major trading partner for the Kingdom and one of the leading economies in the European Union. In light of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, both sides seek to deepen cooperation in vital sectors such as renewable energy, green hydrogen, technology, and industry. The presence of Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan as the accompanying minister reflects the economic weight of the discussions, as German companies look to contribute more to the Kingdom's mega-projects, thus enhancing opportunities for mutual investment and supporting economic diversification plans.
Coordinating efforts to promote regional stability
Politically, Saudi Arabia is a cornerstone of security and stability in the Middle East. Germany highly values the Saudi role in addressing regional crises, combating terrorism, and ensuring the security of global energy supplies. Therefore, the German Chancellor's visit is part of ongoing efforts to align perspectives on pressing regional issues and to work together to support peace and sustainable development, reflecting both countries' commitment to their international responsibilities as active members of the G20.
-
Local news one week agoRamadan 2026 discounts in Saudi Arabia: Offers valid for 54 days
-
Culture and Art, 1 week ago
The death of artist Huda Shaarawi “Umm Zaki” and her funeral in Damascus
-
Technology one week ago
ICAN 2026 Conference Conclusion: Initiatives to Enhance Saudi Arabia's Leadership in Artificial Intelligence
-
Local news one day ago
Launch of the city's shuttle bus service in Ramadan 1447 AH: Routes and stations
-
Culture and Art, 1 week ago
The truth about Fayez Al-Maliki's illness: biopsy results and details of his health condition
-
Culture and Art, 1 week ago
Huda Shaarawi: Farewell to “Umm Zaki,” the icon of Syrian drama
-
Culture and Art, 1 week ago
The murder of Huda Shaarawi, "Umm Zaki": Details of the crime and its impact
-
Local News 3 days ago
Rabigh inaugurates the world's largest water innovation oasis and enters the Guinness World Records
