Russia’s Putin hosts Saddam Hifter amid instability in Libya: What to know Moscow has built a strong relationship with Libya’s eastern camp, as Washington and Ankara pursue efforts to reunify the country’s political and military institutions. Libya
New deal reduces Russia’s military presence in Syria: What to know Under a deal announced by Syria, Russia’s military facilities would be turned into joint training centers. Syria
Russia names Dmitry Dogadkin new ambassador to Syria amid thaw: What to know The appointment of the new ambassador, who previously served as Russia’s envoy to Qatar, comes as Moscow recalibrates its ties with the new Syrian authorities to maintain its strategic foothold in the Mediterranean country. Syria
Iran signs 25 deals at SCO meeting: What to know Iran's foreign minister urged members of the China and Russia-led bloc to focus more on economic development, while host Kyrgyzstan said progress was a made toward an SCO development blank. Iran
Feature Armenia's Pashinyan keeps Iran close while wooing Trump, Turkey and Azerbaijan By Amberin Zaman Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture
US, Armenia hold military drills as Russia's influence weakens in Caucasus Washington has a finger on the scale as Armenia accuses Russia of failing to protect it against Azerbaijan. By Jared Szuba In Washington, DC, reporting on defense, national security, military
Russia maintains Libya role after Wagner's mutiny, Prigozhin's death A senior defense official visited eastern Libya to meet with the Libyan National Army and assure them that Russian support would continue. North Africa Pulse
US top general talks Syria, NATO with new Turkey counterpart Gen. Mark Milley's first announced call with newly appointed Turkish armed forces chief Metin Gurak follows reports that the United States is exploring alternate routes for Ukraine's grain exports. Turkey
Oil prices surge as Saudi Arabia, Russia extend 1.3 million barrel cut through December The production cuts by Saudi Arabia, Russia and the OPEC+ alliance have succeeded in keeping oil prices up but have also had some negative effects on the Saudi economy. Legacy: Gulf
In Russia, Turkey's Erdogan seeks better ties with Putin, but distrust lingers The Turkish president wants to enhance his prestige by brokering a new grain deal but faces an uphill battle, with increasing distrust from Moscow over Ankara's ties with Ukraine, and posture inside NATO. Turkey
Erdogan to meet Putin in Sochi as Turkey looks to save Ukraine grain deal Revival of the vital grain deal will top the agenda of the Turkish and Russian presidents in Sochi, but experts believe Moscow's quick return to the agreement is unlikely. Turkey
Prigozhin’s death spells end of Wagner, but Russia won't abandon its missions With the Wagner Group's top leadership reportedly dead in a likely assassination, Moscow is continuing to quietly replace the private mercenary outfit in its overseas operations. Syria
Explainer: What's going on between Russia and Turkey amid Black Sea escalation Ankara’s avoidance of a public confrontation with Moscow reflects its determination to maintain a balancing act between Russia and the West. Turkey
Saudi oil exports fall to 21-month low The decline in the kingdom’s oil exports follows its production cuts as well as those of Russia. Saudi Arabia may face difficulties maintaining price stability moving forward. Legacy: Gulf
Interview Algerian FM 'satisfied' with Biden’s Western Sahara policy In an interview with Al-Monitor, Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf also discussed the possibility for military intervention in Niger, his country’s relationship with Russia and improved US-Algeria ties under the Biden administration. Ahmed Attaf Foreign Minister of Algeria
Why Turkey's Erdogan sings the same tune with Russia's Putin in Africa Turkey’s efforts to expand its influence in Africa often align with those of Russia, with both Ankara and Moscow holding back from condemning military coups and seeking to capitalize on post-colonial resentments. Turkey
Analysis Russia’s oil sales to China hurt Saudi revenue despite increased demand Despite oil prices maintaining a seven-week rally and crude demand expected to reach record highs in 2023, the burden of maintaining higher oil prices is pushing Saudi Arabia to the limit. By Salim A. Essaid
