'The world is behaving irrationally' - Putin's warm welcome gets cold reaction in Ukraine

Aug 16, 2025
BBC News
'The world is behaving irrationally' - Putin's warm welcome gets cold reaction in Ukraine
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The world is behaving irrationally' - Putin's warm welcome gets cold reaction in Ukraine

Putin's recent visit to Saudi Arabia for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit was met with a lukewarm reception in Ukraine.

The Russian president was welcomed with open arms by the Saudi monarchy and other GCC leaders. This notably contradicted the widespread criticism and sanctions imposed on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. This move has sparked discussions about shifting geopolitical alliances.

Implications for Ukraine

This development could potentially impact Ukraine's broader diplomatic relations. The relatively warm reception for Putin in the GCC region demonstrates a divide in global opinion about Russia's role in the war. This visit may suggest a potential shift in the balance of power in international relations.

Regional Implications

The GCC summit and Putin's visit reveal the complex interplay of geostrategic interests in the Middle East. The welcoming stance of the GCC nations may indicate their desire to balance great power politics and promote their regional security and economic interests.

Global Implications

The divergence in reactions to the Russian invasion of Ukraine highlights a complex web of geopolitical interests on the global stage. It suggests an unpredictable landscape of shifting alliances in the years to come.

Original source: BBC News