Saudi Arabia: Ukrainian President Mr. Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a significant diplomatic move by attending an Arab League summit in Saudi Arabia, where he sought support in the ongoing conflict with Russia. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also offered his willingness to mediate between Moscow and Kyiv, highlighting the escalating war’s global implications.

“We do not have missiles as our enemy has. We have less air power; we do not possess numerous killer drones that Iran supplies to Russia. We do not have that much artillery, but we do stay strong because we do have truth on our side,” Mr. Zelenskyy stated.

Notably, Mr. Mustafa Dzhemilev, the leader of the indigenous Turkic Sunni Muslim community known as the Crimean Tatars, was present at the event alongside Mr. Zelenskyy. Moreover, the Ukrainian President emphasized the significance of Ukraine’s economic and educational connections with the Arab world, underscoring their mutual importance.

Beginning my first-ever visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to enhance bilateral relations and Ukraine’s ties with the Arab world. Political prisoners in Crimea and temporarily occupied territories, the return of our people, Peace Formula, energy cooperation. KSA plays a…

— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) May 19, 2023

Since the commencement of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Mr. Zelenskyy has embarked on visits to various countries. However, the president’s visits have predominantly focused on forging ties with staunch allies, such as several European Union states, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Additionally, he is scheduled to travel to Japan over the weekend to participate in the G7 meeting.

The president’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies a notable departure from his previous strategy, as Ukraine seeks support from countries that have refrained from publicly condemning Russia’s actions.

WORLD ROUNDUP: Half of world’s largest lakes & reservoirs suffer water shrinkage; Study