Putin visits Saudi Arabia, UAE on Mideast tour

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Saudi Arabia after visiting the UAE, making a rare trip abroad as Moscow seeks to reassert itself globally.

It is only the third trip the Russian leader has taken outside the former Soviet Union since he invaded Ukraine, following visits to Iran and China, and comes as Moscow seeks to bolster its influence in the Middle East.

Putin was seen greeting Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before the two briefly sat down for televised talks.

“Nothing can prevent the development of our friendly relations,” Putin told Prince Mohammed, inviting the Saudi royal to visit Moscow.

“It is very important for all of us to exchange information and assessments with you on what is happening in the region. Our meeting is certainly timely,” Putin said.

The Kremlin said ahead of the meeting that the two would discuss oil markets, as well as ways to promote de-escalation in the war in Gaza.