Arabs Tilt Toward Moscow as Gulf Leaders Meet in Sochi
Qatar Steers GCC Dialogue While Russia Condemns Israel, Underscoring Shift Away From Washington
Sochi, Russia — September 14, 2025
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states signaled a deepening relationship with Russia on Saturday as top diplomats convened in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, a meeting dominated by Qatar’s assertive diplomacy and Moscow’s sharp criticism of Israel.
GCC Secretary-General Jassem Al-Budaiwi joined Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to denounce Israel’s recent strike, which Lavrov described as “a grave violation of international law.” Representatives from Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain echoed outrage over what they called Israeli aggression, while calling for heightened cooperation with Russia on regional security and energy.
The gathering highlighted a striking recalibration of Middle East alliances. Longstanding U.S. influence in the Gulf has been strained by disputes over Gaza, oil production, and arms sales, creating space for Moscow to advance economic and security ties. Lavrov emphasized Russia’s readiness to serve as a “balanced partner,” offering expanded energy collaboration, defense technology, and diplomatic backing at the United Nations.
Analysts note that Qatar’s prominent role at the Sochi talks reflects both its independent foreign policy and its growing clout in mediating conflicts, from Gaza to Ukraine. While GCC states have not announced any formal break with Washington, the optics of the meeting — and the united condemnation of Israel alongside Moscow — underscored a shifting regional dynamic.
With U.S.–Gulf relations under strain, the Sochi summit bolstered perceptions that President Vladimir Putin is positioning Russia as a new power broker in the Gulf, leveraging energy cooperation and shared frustration over U.S. policies to expand Moscow’s foothold in the region.
Video Credit: TOI
