Russian President Vladimir Putin is making a rare trip abroad Wednesday as he meets with allies in the Middle East. His talks with the leaders of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will focus on increasing bilateral cooperation and the war between Israel and Hamas.
Russia's visit to the Middle East sees it reasserting its diplomatic clout in the region, with Moscow occupying the rare position of being allies with regional arch-rivals, Iran and Saudi Arabia, as well as surrounding countries such as Syria, Iraq, the UAE and Qatar.
Russia had also enjoyed cordial relations with Israel but has become increasingly critical of the conflict in Gaza as the humanitarian crisis has worsened.
While Russia is strengthening its ties, Ukraine's are looking shakier than ever amid continuing wrangling over future funding of the country, particularly in the U.S.