Why G7's economic policy toward Russia might alienate Saudi Arabia The G7 has seized hundreds of billions of dollars in Russia’s frozen assets in response to Moscow's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Saudi Arabia
Putin meets Fidan, 'fully supports' Turkey’s aspirations in BRICS The first bilateral meeting between Putin and Fidan saw the Russian leader embrace Ankara's interest in joining the BRICS as a counterweight to the West. Turkey
Following Zelenskyy's visit, how can Qatar help Ukraine in Russia mediation? Ukraine has maintained cordial relations with Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE amid the war with Russia, and the three Gulf states have all sought to play the role of mediator in the conflict. Qatar
Analysis Can Turkey help Europe build effective air and missile defense system? With Turkey joining the German-led European Sky Shield Initiative, in the long run Ankara could use its burgeoning Hisar and Siper platforms to improve Europe’s air and missile defense. By Barin Kayaoglu In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security
UAE, Ukraine conclude trade deal talks, Emirates to help post-war reconstruction United Arab Emirates
How Russia seeks to capitalize on US strikes in Yemen, Red Sea tensions Russia has maintained balanced relations in Yemen, while avoiding criticism of the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, even as its trade has been affected. Gulf
Turkey’s Erdogan hosts Zelenskyy, hopeful on Ukraine-Russia compromise Zelenskyy’s visit to Turkey comes one week after that of Lavrov, and as Ankara is trying to find a compromise between Moscow and Kyiv on a Black Sea mechanism. Turkey
Iran showcases Shahed drones, missiles at Qatar's defense exhibition This year’s Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference features Iranian drones, Russian warships and delegations from across Asia and Africa. Gulf
Turkey’s Fidan to meet Blinken in Washington as US ties strengthen Hakan Fidan's meeting with Blinken comes on the heels of his meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at the Antalya Diplomatic Forum. Turkey
Turkey spy chief Kalin to meet CIA’s Burns, discuss Syria on first US visit In addition to bilateral ties, the Gaza and Russia-Ukraine wars will top the agenda of the Turkish intelligence chief’s meetings with his US counterpart and other US officials. Turkey
Iran, Algeria to build closer energy, tourism ties Europe is increasingly interested in Algeria as an alternative to Russia for gas supplies, while Iran is seeking to boost its own gas output amid continued US sanctions. Iran
In Antalya, Turkey courts Russia on Black Sea deal, the West on defense Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is in Turkey, where he is set to meet with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as Ankara continues to deepen ties with the United States and European Union while also maintaining solid relations with Moscow. By Ezgi Akin In Ankara, reporting on diplomacy, EU-Turkey ties, NATO
Analysis US Navy faces down Houthi attacks as Washington signals open-ended effort Saudi Arabia has restricted the US military from launching strikes in Yemen from bases on Saudi territory, leaving a US Navy aircraft carrier to shoulder the campaign in the Red Sea. By Jared Szuba In Washington, DC, reporting on defense, national security, military
Lavrov to visit Turkey as Erdogan seeks new Black Sea mechanism with Russia The Turkish president unveiled the efforts to set up a new safety regulation ahead of the top Russian diplomat’s visit. Turkey
Two years into Ukraine war, Iran continues to play Russia enabler Mounting international pressure and onerous sanctions do not seem to have deterred Tehran from its increasing involvement in the Ukraine war, as the Islamic Republic heavily invests in its alliance with Russia for survival. Iran
US sanctions target Russia’s production of Iranian attack drones On the second anniversary of the war in Ukraine, the Biden administration has rolled out new measures meant to counter Russia’s drone partnership with Iran. Iran
US changes tune on Gaza ‘cease-fire’ as Rafah fears grow Under pressure internationally and from Democratic voters, the Biden administration has begun to call for a "temporary cease-fire" in Gaza. Israel