Russian influence

Analysis

Following Syria losses, Russia seeks to double down on Africa presence

Following Assad’s fall, Russia has been expanding its influence in Africa by securing a naval base in Sudan and increasing its military presence in Libya to maintain strategic access to the Mediterranean and Red seas.

By Jonathan Fenton-Harvey

In London, reporting on North Africa and Gulf politics

Analysis

Will US-Russia rapprochement increase odds of Israel striking Iran?

Israeli leaders hope the thaw in relations will lead Moscow to stem strategic cooperation with Tehran, leaving Iran vulnerable to an attack on its nuclear facilities after a US green light.

By Ben Caspit

In Tel Aviv, reporting on national security, Israeli politics, defense

Analysis

Sudan, Russia reach 'understanding' on naval base but hurdles remain

A naval base deal that has been more than five years in the making has gained renewed attention after statements from Sudan’s foreign minister while in Moscow.

By Rosaleen Carroll

In Washington, DC, US, reporting on the Middle East

US-Russia talks conclude in Saudi Arabia, most high-level meeting since 2023: What to know

The US State Department said one purpose of the talks was to “reestablish” bilateral relations with Russia as Saudi Arabia seeks to mediate between the two.

United States

In first, Turkmenistan to supply Turkey directly with gas: What to know

BOTAS, Turkey’s state-owned pipeline operator, and Turkmenistan’s Turkmengaz will begin the gas flow from Turkmenistan to Turkey on March 1.

Turkey

Analysis

UAE's South Caucasus ambitions challenged by Georgia crisis: What to know

The UAE, encouraged by its flourishing ties with Azerbaijan, has made inroads in its relations with Baku's strategic partner, Georgia — but the political crisis there is now proving to be a challenge.

By Rahim Rahimov

In Baku, reporting on Middle East-Caucasus ties

Analysis

Libya braces for Trump 2.0: Navigating geopolitics, energy, Abraham Accords

With Turkey and Russia both competing for influence in Libya, the Trump administration could explore opportunities to strengthen energy security and encourage Tripoli to join the Abraham Accords.

By Mohamed Eljarh

Syria’s new government ends Russian lease of Tartous port: What we know

The new authorities in Syria ended an agreement with the Russian company managing the key port of Tartous in the latest sign of Russia's waning influence in the country after the fall of the regime.

Syria

Analysis

Iran-Russia deal signed: Does it secure Tehran's geopolitical interests?

Iran has long sought an alliance to protect it in the face of potential conflict with adversaries, but the text of the agreement falls short of obligating either party to provide military support in the event of foreign aggression.

By A correspondent in Tehran

In Tehran, reporting on politics

Analysis

Iran, Russia to seal strategic partnership: What’s in it for Moscow?

Iran and Russia are set to bolster ties with a strategic pact, deepening cooperation in defense, trade, and counter-Western alliances.

By Anton Mardasov

Iran, Russia set to sign partnership deal: What we know

While the deal has been drafted with the stated goal of reshaping the trajectory of bilateral ties, questions remain over its regional implications, fueled by concerns in Iran over national interests being compromised.

Iran

Analysis

Russia eyes Libya as military substitute for Syria? Not so fast, say Libyans

Despite its ambitions to relocate military assets from Syria to Libya following Assad's fall, Russia faces significant challenges in Libya's complex political landscape, limiting its ability to achieve this goal.

By Mohamed Eljarh