Vladimir Putin will visit Iran next week amid concerns that Russia is turning to Tehran to provide weapons for use in Ukraine, something the US claims could happen imminently.

The visit assumes even greater significance as Joe Biden is due to begin a trip to Iran’s regional rivals Saudi Arabia and Israel starting on Wednesday.

Both countries have resisted joining global efforts to punish Russia for its invasion of Ukraine due to their domestic interests.

It was also reported that the US president is thinking of lifting a ban on US sales of weapons to Saudi Arabia on the condition that it moves towards ending its war with Yemen.

The potential decision comes as the US seeks an increase in Gulf oil supplies and to counter Iran.

Source » independent