politics
Russia Launches Military Invasion of Ukraine
The ongoing U.S.-Israeli war in Iran has unexpectedly strengthened Ukraine's position in its conflict with Russia through new drone technology deals with Gulf states and strikes on Russian oil facilities. Despite higher oil prices aiding Russia's revenues, Ukrainian actions have reduced some earnings. Meanwhile, the conflict's economic ripples have not derailed the U.S.
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Al JazeeraAudio version
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The ongoing war between Iran and Israel has led to disruptions in global oil supplies, resulting in a surge in Russian oil revenues. com, Russia's oil export earnings increased 2.3 times in the third week of the conflict as the world scrambled for alternative supplies, with global oil prices rising due to issues in the Strait of Hormuz.
This revenue boost has occurred despite existing sanctions on Russia, potentially aiding its military efforts in Ukraine.
Ukraine has responded by intensifying drone strikes on Russian oil infrastructure. France 24 reported that Ukrainian forces used long-range drones to target oil facilities deep inside Russia, aiming to reduce Moscow's export revenues that fund its invasion.
Data from the report indicates that while Russian earnings surged initially, subsequent strikes in the fourth week reduced them by $1 billion, offsetting about two-thirds of the prior gains.
In related developments, the BBC noted that the Iran war has strengthened Ukraine in unexpected ways, including through new alliances and military aid. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar to share expertise on countering Iranian-designed drones used by Russia.
Zelensky stated, "We want to help [Gulf states] defend themselves," according to the BBC. These visits have led to deals for drone technology sharing, with Ukraine also securing $8.6 billion in military support from Norway and $4.7 billion from Germany, including drones and missiles.
The conflict has diverted U.S. military resources, prompting Ukraine to seek air defense systems from Middle Eastern countries. Zelensky highlighted that low-cost systems, as little as $10,000, can intercept Shahed-136 drones deployed by Russia. European allies have increased purchases of Ukrainian drone expertise amid threats from Russian drones.
