Russian President Vladimir Putin struck the world with his unexpected visit to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, initiating a lightning tour into this region. Despite the continued war in Ukraine, the Kremlin leader tried to increase Russia's authority as an influential Middle East player. The true meaning of his visit is through an analysis of the statements and actions when traveling.
Putin landed in Abu Dhabi, where the COP28 UN climate negotiations were held. UAE representatives have met the Russian leader warmly, which emphasizes their close ties. The issues of energy cooperation, conflicts in the Middle East and the "Ukrainian crisis" became the object of discussion. However, the main blow was Putin's expression on the importance of UAE participation in COP28, which could change the view of the country's role in environmental issues.
After the UAE, Putin went to Saudi Arabia, where he was accepted by Prince Muhammad Bin Salman. It should be noted that Saudi Arabia and the UAE did not sign an agreement on the establishment of the International Criminal Court, thereby avoiding Putin's possible arrest for war crimes in Ukraine.
The exchange of positive statements and handshakes indicates a new level of Russian-Saudi relations. Putin stated that they "came to a level they had never seen." Discussion of security issues and cooperation in the region became key topics, emphasizing the strategic partnership of both countries.
Although the UAE and Saudi Arabia are allies of the United States, their close ties with Russia are explained by the desire to bypass the measures imposed on Moscow. Western sanctions have led to the expansion of Russia's economic and diplomatic cooperation with these countries.
