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
Newsletter: Daily Briefing Syria, Russia reach deal on Russian bases Iran says no reason to fear Pakistan-Turkey-Saudi security pact; Yemeni military reports 7 killed in Houthi attack; and more. By Ezgi Akin In Ankara, reporting on diplomacy, EU-Turkey ties, NATO
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
Newsletter: Daily Briefing Cargo ship attack near Hormuz clouds US-Iran diplomacy Lebanon, Israel begin 7th round of talks in Rome; Turkey calls on Russia, Ukraine to ensure Black Sea safety after drone attack; and more. By Ezgi Akin In Ankara, reporting on diplomacy, EU-Turkey ties, NATO
Newsletter: Daily Briefing US extends Iran strikes to bridges, airport By Ezgi Akin In Ankara, reporting on diplomacy, EU-Turkey ties, NATO
Analysis From S-400s to SAMP/T: Turkey’s defense pivot gathers pace after NATO summit By Barin Kayaoglu In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security
Newsletter: Daily Briefing Kremlin confirms S-400 talks with Turkey By Ezgi Akin In Ankara, reporting on diplomacy, EU-Turkey ties, NATO
Iran-Russia relations after nuclear deal Russian and Iranian relations have been improving, and are expected to continue to improve even after a nuclear deal despite their being energy competitors. Saudi Arabia
Russia's Middle East gamble Russia's historical links with the Middle East run deep, as even amidst challenges Moscow sees opportunities. Saudi Arabia
US, Russia face off in Middle East US-Russian relations involving the Middle East could be affected by the new US National Military Strategy, which sees a low but growing risk of an "interstate war with a major power." Russia
China, Turkey: friends or foes? Turkey's manipulative news reports of China's massacres of fasting Uighurs recently upended China-Turkey relations. Turkey
Did Moscow’s 'air defense' diplomacy land Saudi deal? After decades of disappointment, it appears Russia might finally become an arms supplier to Saudi Arabia, after also reaching deals with Iran and Egypt. Legacy: Gulf
How stronger Russia-Saudi ties may be threat to Assad The recent visit of Saudi Arabia’s deputy crown prince to Russia suggests a possible progression in Saudi-Russia relations. But what implications could such an alliance have on regional conflicts, particularly the Syrian crisis? Saudi Arabia
Did Khamenei blur his own red lines on sanctions? Supreme Leader Khamenei gives strong backing for Iran’s negotiating team heading into Vienna talks; Assad holds off on hitting Islamic State, for now; Israel forced to clarify position on Jabhat al-Nusra; Egypt seeks to counter Turkey’s role in Syria. Egypt
Saudi deputy crown prince seeks Russia deals Saudi Arabia's minister of defense signed several cooperation agreements with Russia this past week. Saudi Arabia
Putin, Erdogan meet face to face, but don't see eye to eye The recent meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Azerbaijan appears to reflect a mutual irritation between the two parties. Turkey
US-Russia relations still tense after Kerry's visit US Secretary of State John Kerry's recent visit to Moscow was indicative of the US policy of "selective engagement" with Russia. Russia
Why Russia's Mideast agenda doesn't appeal to GCC Both Russia and the Gulf states have pursued divergent foreign policies for years, though some may be ready for an alliance. Legacy: Gulf
Eastern patriarchs meet in Damascus The Eastern patriarchs met in Damascus on June 8 to discuss the Christians’ situation in the region, following coordinating efforts between Lebanese Maronite Patriarch Bechara al-Rai and the Vatican, and Greek Orthodox Patriarch John X Yazigi and Moscow. Lebanon
