Ukrainian MP explains why Saudi Arabia was chosen for U.S.-Russia talks

He made this statement in an interview on the Espreso TV channel.

"Saudi Arabia is a key country in terms of energy and global oil prices, especially within OPEC. Moreover, during Trump's presidency, Saudi Arabia became a real and serious ally of the U.S. Jeddah is the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia," Nalyvaychenko explained.

The former head of the Security Service of Ukraine believes that Saudi Arabia has at least, if not more, leverage over Russia, particularly over the Russian oil and gas economy and supply, compared to anyone else in the world.

"Saudi Arabia is a key country in the Middle East and the Near East. All other countries, such as Qatar, Bahrain, and even the United Arab Emirates, are allies of Saudi Arabia. This is a huge economic and energy force," Nalyvaychenko concluded.

• On Sunday, March 23, representatives from the U.S. and Russia will meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss the details of halting strikes on energy and civilian infrastructure in the Russian-Ukrainian war.