The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an official statement expressing the Kingdom's deep regret over the material damage sustained by the Qatari Embassy building as a result of the shelling of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. This stance reflects solidarity with Qatar and reaffirms the fraternal ties that bind the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states.
In its concise and firm statement, the Ministry emphasized the necessity of providing full protection for members of diplomatic missions and their premises, noting that the safety of diplomatic missions is a red line in international relations, as stipulated by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The Kingdom also reiterated its unwavering support for all international and regional diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Russian-Ukrainian crisis through peaceful means and constructive dialogue.
The importance of the Vienna Convention and the protection of diplomatic missions
The Saudi statement’s reference to the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations underscores the international legal dimension of this event. This convention is a cornerstone of modern international relations, with Article 22 explicitly stating that “the premises of a diplomatic mission are inviolable.” Representatives of the host state may not enter them without the consent of the head of the mission, and the host state has a special duty to take all appropriate measures to protect the premises of the mission from any intrusion or damage. This Saudi reminder of these principles comes at a time when diplomatic missions face increasing risks in areas of armed conflict around the world.
Context of the crisis and its impact on the capital, Kyiv
This incident comes amid ongoing military operations and escalating tensions in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, with the capital, Kyiv, and other Ukrainian cities subjected to intermittent aerial and missile bombardments targeting infrastructure and vital centers. This urban conflict often results in collateral damage to civilian buildings and the diplomatic missions of neutral countries, raising international concerns about the safety of civilians and foreign diplomats in areas of tension.
Saudi Arabia's role and efforts toward a peaceful solution
Since the outbreak of the Ukrainian crisis, Saudi Arabia has maintained a balanced stance calling for de-escalation and restraint. Riyadh has played a pivotal role in several humanitarian initiatives, including its successful mediation in prisoner exchanges between the warring parties and the provision of humanitarian aid packages to the Ukrainian people. This statement reflects a continuation of this policy, which rejects military escalation and calls on the international community to intensify efforts to reach a political settlement that guarantees regional and international security and stability, and spares the world further economic and humanitarian consequences of this war.
