Putin Heads For Riyadh

Putin Heads For Riyadh

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Description

This commentary examines Russian President Vladimir Putin’s 2019 visit to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and its implications for Russia–Saudi relations and the broader geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. Ahead of the summit, Putin planned to highlight progress on a long-standing economic agenda with Saudi leaders, engage on energy cooperation under the OPEC+ framework, and lobby for expanded Russian defense exports, including air defense systems. The article situates the visit in the context of decades-long bilateral efforts to deepen strategic ties despite divergences over regional conflicts, differences with U.S. policy, and mutual distrust. It discusses how Moscow seeks to position itself as an independent energy partner, leverage diplomatic momentum from shared interests in oil price stabilization, and extend its influence in a region traditionally dominated by U.S. security engagement.

Document Type

Article

Topic(s)

Strategic Competition, National Security, Defense Policy

Region(s)

Middle East/Persian Gulf, Russia, Saudi Arabia

Publication Date

10-8-2019

Keywords

Putin visit Riyadh, Russia–Saudi Arabia relations, OPEC+, energy cooperation, oil markets, Russian foreign policy, Saudi diplomacy, Middle East geopolitics, air defense systems, Persian Gulf security, U.S. influence in Gulf, strategic partnership

Putin Heads For Riyadh

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