JEDDAH: Two Russian vessels, the frigate Admiral Gorshkov and the tanker Kama, have made a rare port call in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This marks the first visit by a Russian warship to a Saudi port in about ten years, according to Russia’s defence ministry.
The two ships arrived on Wednesday and departed less than 24 hours later after a “long arranged” visit.
The vessels took on food and drinking water in the Red Sea port, and a “cultural programme” was also scheduled for the crew.
Admiral Gorshkov is armed with Zircon hypersonic missiles and was part of a group of Russian Northern Fleet vessels that left in January.
The fleet has taken part in two exercises, in the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea, including one with China and South Africa.
Saudi Arabia has maintained a conciliatory stance over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, calling for a political solution.
The two nations have been working closely together with other members of the Organisation of Oil Exporting Countries (OPEC) to manage the oil markets.
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Earlier this month, OPEC and its allies cut production by over one million barrels per day in a surprise move that sent prices soaring and drew criticism from the United States.
The port call comes at a time of heightened tensions between Russia and Western nations over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its support for separatists in eastern Ukraine have led to sanctions and diplomatic isolation from many Western countries.
Saudi Arabia’s decision to host the Russian vessels may signal the kingdom’s desire to maintain good relations with Moscow despite the ongoing conflict.
The visit of the Russian Navy to Saudi Arabia is also significant in terms of regional power dynamics.
The Gulf states have long relied on the United States for security and protection, but the increasing presence of Russian and Chinese vessels in the region may indicate a shift in this balance of power.
The short but significant port call by the Russian navy in Saudi Arabia may signal a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries and a potential shift in the balance of power in the region.
