Putin and bin Salman Urge End to Middle East Hostilities

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged a swift end to hostilities in the Middle East during a telephone conversation on Thursday, emphasizing the need for intensified political and diplomatic efforts to achieve a long-term settlement. The call, conducted amid escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf region, also addressed disruptions to global energy supplies caused by the ongoing conflict.

The two leaders expressed serious concern over the deteriorating military and political situation, including civilian casualties and damage to critical infrastructure. According to a Kremlin statement, they highlighted the importance of resolving the crisis while respecting the legitimate interests of all parties involved. Putin and bin Salman further discussed challenges to energy production and transportation, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, which has seen closures and attacks affecting international shipping routes. They stressed the value of continued cooperation within the OPEC+ framework, involving Russia, Saudi Arabia, and other major producers, to stabilize volatile oil markets.

The conversation occurred as the conflict, now in its...