Russian President Vladimir Putin urged a ceasefire in West Asia during phone calls with Emirati and Qatari leaders on Monday amid the escalating war in the Middle East. In a call with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, both leaders "emphasised the need for an immediate ceasefire and a return to the political and diplomatic process," the Kremlin said in a readout. The Russian Foreign Ministry earlier slammed "any attacks on civilian targets, whether in Iran or Arab countries," in the conflict. Facing isolation from the West after sending troops to Ukraine, Putin has sought to strengthen partnerships in West Asia, maintaining close relations both with Iran and the Gulf monarchies. Tehran is Moscow's key ally and has supplied it with the Shahed drones used in the Ukraine offensive.

Source: Indian Express March 02, 2026 14:58 UTC