UAE Deputy Prime Minister Shiekh Saif visits Russia as President Trump announces his first GCC visit
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Amid ongoing U.S.-Russia tensions over the war in Ukraine, the UAE has maintained a neutral stance, pursuing diplomatic overtures with both sides. A high-level visit to Moscow by Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, reinforced this balancing act. Though framed as a mission to enhance cooperation in security and child protection, the visit also signaled a willingness to deepen ties with Moscow at a time when much of the world is distancing itself from Russia. Notably, the UAE and Russia share a close relationship with India.In the broader regional context, the UAE's efforts to present itself as a stabilizing force stand alongside other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Saudi Arabia is mediating between the U.S. and Russia, and Oman plays a key role in backchannel talks with Iran. However, the UAE's position—marked by its embrace of the Abraham Accords and participation in the West Asian Quad (I2U2)—suggests a deeper alignment with with the US, while it has developed strong credibility in the Middle East and Africa.The UAE's centrality to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) further underscores its ambitions to be a regional linchpin. Its steadfast support of India, even in controversial moments, and its close ties with both Russia and Israel, have cemented its role in a complex geopolitical web.The conclusion of Sheikh Saif's Moscow visit included a meeting with President Vladimir Putin—an event that drew attention for its timing and strategic importance. Two Memoranda of Understanding were signed with Russia's Interior Ministry, launching a Strategic Police Dialogue aimed at combating organized crime.Sheikh Saif also participated in an interfaith meeting with Rabbi Aharon Gurevich during an international forum at the Moscow Cathedral Mosque, reiterating the UAE's commitment to religious tolerance. In a world increasingly defined by shifting power dynamics and fragmented alliances, the United Arab Emirates has carved out a prominent role as a diplomatic player.Initiatives like the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi, housing a mosque, church, and synagogue, and the inauguration of a traditional Hindu mandir in 2024 by India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflect a strong direction to position the UAE as a hub of religious harmony.On May 1st, President Putin and President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al Nahyan spoke by phone, during which Putin thanked the UAE for facilitating a prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine. While promoted as a humanitarian success, the gesture further positions the UAE as a mediator willing to work with all sides.The recent announcement that President Trump will visit the Gulf countries, starting with a summit in Riyadh, further increases the importance of the Gulf monarchies as middle powers in a volatile world.
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