Russia’s arms export deals have been a topic of interest due to their potential geopolitical implications, especially during the ongoing war with Ukraine. The article highlights how Russia continues to sell weapons to various countries despite Western sanctions and the invasion of Ukraine. Some of these countries include Saudi Arabia, which has abstained from UN votes on resolutions related to the conflict.
The article also mentions that Rostec, a Russian state defense company, worked on contracts with several countries in 2022, including China, India, Algeria, Egypt, Belarus, and others. These countries continued to receive military supplies from Russia after its invasion of Ukraine.
Experts suggest that Russia views arms sales as a tool for establishing or strengthening geopolitical ties, which can influence the voting behavior of these countries at the UN. The article notes that Saudi Arabia’s abstention on several UN votes and its efforts to help free foreigners imprisoned by Russian forces demonstrate its close relationship with Russia.
However, it is also mentioned that Western sanctions have made it difficult and costly for Russia to import necessary equipment and electronic components for defense production, making it a less reliable supplier.