Egypt dodges Trump’s ire as White House orders massive last-minute aid cuts

The outgoing president briefly sought to freeze all US military aid to Egypt over its purchase of Russian military hardware, but the White House revised the decision before notifying Congress, Al-Monitor's sources said.

Egypt

Moscow stands to gain from Hamas-Damascus reconciliation

While claims that Russia is playing a large role in reconciliation talks between the Palestinian movement Hamas and the Syrian regime may be overstated, Moscow could benefit in several ways if the two sides restore relations.

Palestine

Turkey sticks to its guns on Russian S-400s despite US sanctions

Voices are growing louder in Turkey questioning why these systems were ever purchased, considering the headaches they have caused for Ankara.

Turkey

Russian, Palestinian leaders discuss Israel-Palestinian peace process

Russia has voiced willingness to mediate between Israel and Palestine in its capacity as a member of the Middle East Quartet.

Palestine

Will Turkish drones help Ukraine reclaim territory?

As the Ukrainian news media buzzes with speculation that Ukraine may be planning to reclaim control of Donbass by Turkish drones, direct involvement by Turkey in the Ukraine-Russia conflict would cost Ankara dearly in its relations with Moscow.

Turkey

Intel: Russia sets up military positions in Syria’s Ain Issa after shelling from Turkish-controlled side

The move follows Russian talks with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces

Syria

How realistic are Turkey’s ambitions over strategic corridor with Azerbaijan

Turkey is pinning high economic hopes on a transport link that would connect it to Azerbaijan and beyond, but Russia and Iran have caveats and the viability of Turkey’s projects are open to question.

Turkey

Is Russia’s naval base in Sudan a signal to Turkey ... and Biden?

Moscow is set to create a strategic foothold in Africa along vital shipping routes.

Russia

Opposition factions in Idlib prepare for imminent Syrian government offensive

After Turkey withdrew from observation posts within regime-controlled areas, Syria and Russia stepped up their attacks in Idlib, raising fears of an imminent battle.

Syria

Russia to establish naval base in Sudan

The combat capability of the Russian navy in the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean would be significantly increased with a military base on Sudan’s Red Sea coast.

Russia

Opposition leader sees warning in Russian cease-fire violations in Syria

The Syrian Opposition Coalition's president blames Russia for the failure of political process.

Syria

South Caucasus deal echoes plan from 30 years ago

Although some in Turkey see Russia as the real winner of the Russian-brokered truce between Armenia and Azerbaijan, the deal has elevated Turkey to a regional power in the south Caucasus.

Turkey